What is a bench warrant and how do I deal with it?

The question “what is a bench warrant” may not cross your mind until you are stopped by the police or see the term on your criminal record. A bench warrant is different than an arrest warrant that is initiated by for a crime. For an arrest warrant a police officer has to prove to a judge why there’s a need arrest you. Typically, this involves filing a statement with the judge entailing how, for example you, are suspected of committing a crime. However a bench warrant is extremely different. A bench warrant has nothing to do with a police officer because it’s issued by a presiding judge over your case or a case you’re involved in (if you’re a subpoenaed witness).

A bench warrant means that you failed to appear at your court hearing or to testify in a court hearing. Sometimes the judge sets a bail or denies bail when issues a bench warrant. Thus, if you’re ever stopped by a police officer, you can be arrested. In some cases, where you’re a subpoenaed witness you may have to pay fines. However, if you failed to appear at your court hearing, then you can have more serious problems. For instance, you can be sent to jail for the duration of your criminal trial (if bail is denied).

Failing to appear in court doesn’t sound serious, but it is. Thus, contacting a lawyer is one of the best ways to deal with it.