Whether an Orange County judge recently issued an arrest warrant for you after prosecutors linked you with a violent crime; or police officers seized drugs from your vehicle during a routine traffic stop, you want a better understanding of the warrant process as well as legal resources to help you respond to this court ordered document.
Why might a warrant be issued for you?
- You failed to appear at a pretrial conference or hearing.
- You failed to comply with a court order.
- You ignored a judge’s order to get into treatment, comply with a court sentence, or connect with your probation officer.
- You ignored or failed to pay a fine or mandatory restitution ordered by a court.
- You demonstrated “contempt of court” inside or outside the courtroom. For instance, you ignored a summons jury duty or violated acceptable courtroom behavior.
Eliminating a warrant
To resolve a warrant, a judge in the jurisdiction that issued the warrant must lift the order. In other words, the warrant won’t “go away” on its own. Before law enforcement arrests you, contact a skilled Newport Beach criminal defense lawyer at (949) 660-1389.
Search warrants and the 4th amendment
Much of what we’ve discussed above pertains to arrest warrants and a special class of arrest warrants known as “bench warrants.” (These are documents issued directly from a judge – from “the bench” – for your immediate arrest on sight).
Search warrants are slightly different. They empower law enforcement agencies to enter your private property to look for evidence of a crime or the proceeds of criminal action. The 4th amendment to the U.S. Constitution provides protection for defendants from “unreasonable” searches and seizures.
Managing your anxiety about the warrant and taking effective action
Whether the arrest warrant was “sprung on you” seemingly out of nowhere; or whether you knew prosecutors would likely ask a judge to secure your arrest, you no doubt have many anxieties and questions about the process. Part of what’s so unnerving about facing a warrant is the uncertainty. You want someone to explain your rights and responsibilities to you in clear language and lay out a battle plan to minimize your penalties.
The Law Offices of Maltaise Cini can provide a free and thorough case consultation to help get you on track. Attorney Cini is a 17-year veteran of the Newport Beach criminal defense system. She has represented literally thousands of clients and gotten excellent results. Learn more about her practice and resources at www.maltaisecinilaw.com, or connect with her directly to schedule a consultation at (949) 660-1389.