What is an Outstanding Bench Warrant?
Many people are curious about what happens if they miss a court date or if they learn that they are subject to an outstanding bench warrant. If you found out that an arrest warrant or a bench warrant was set up for you, or if you were required to attend a court hearing and you failed to show up, the judge may ultimately issue a bench warrant. This could lead to your arrest.
This translates to the fact that the authorities are well within their rights to take you into their custody whenever. This could occur in your workplace, at home, at a traffic stop or when you show up in court for another issue. If you fail to deal with the warrant properly by retaining a criminal defense attorney, you will stress about the threat of going to jail.
What Role Does Discretion Play in Court?
Courts have the discretion to issue a warrant for a number of different reasons. An arrest warrant occurs when the police have enough evidence to support the claim that you committed a crime. Once you are in custody, you could be held no option for bail until an arraignment or a release hearing. A bench warrant allows police officers to bring you into custody and take you in front of the court to address the original reason that the warrant was originally issued. In most situations, a court has issued a bench warrant against you because of your failure to finish community service, paying due fines, or paying child support.
What to Do After You’re Picked Up on a Warrant
In the event you are brought up on a warrant, the court is within their rights to hold you until a hearing has been scheduled in your case. The consequences of missing a court appearance are serious and you need the criminal defense attorney to help you figure out what to do immediately after this issue occurs.
Hiring an Ocean City, NJ Defense Lawyer
Failure to appear in court can have a multitude of consequences that include driver’s license suspension, jail sentences, fines, bench warrant, revocation of bond and more. If you find yourself in this position, you need to take action immediately and consult an experienced criminal defense attorney to ensure the stakes don’t get worse or run into additional issues. Contact the Law Offices of John W. Tumelty today for a consultation.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
