Bench Warrant

A bench warrant is an order issued by a Judge for the arrest of an individual. If an individual has failed to appear in Court in either his own case or another case in which he has been subpoenaed as a witness, the Judge may issue a bench warrant ordering their arrest. Also, a bench warrant may be ordered when a defendant does not pay his fines or comply with bail or probation conditions, or when the defendant picks up a new case while out on bond on another case. A bench warrant authorizes law enforcement to locate and arrest an individual, and bring them before the issuing judge to answer the charge of contempt.

If there is a bench warrant for your arrest, you should consult with a defense attorney at your earliest convenience. A defense attorney may, in certain circumstances, be able to file a motion with the Court asking that the warrant be vacated and that a court appearance be set, thus negating the need for you to turn yourself in and go into custody. In other circumstances, your presence may be required, but the presence of an attorney may assist in mitigating your situation.