Resolving Bench Warrants In Pennsylvania

Bench Warrants in Pennsylvania

A bench warrant is a legal document issued by a judge that authorizes the arrest of someone for disobedience to an authority such as a court. It is frequently issued for failing to show up for a court appearance. In simple terms, it is handed out when someone commits an offense against the court. The bench warrant is issued directly to the police authorizing them to arrest the person named in the bench warrant, first taking them to jail, and then to appear in court before a judge to complete their unfinished legal business.

How Do I Deal with a Bench Warrant in Pennsylvania?

There are several reasons why a bench warrant may be issued against you that usually involves your failure to do something. Some of the common reasons for a bench warrant are:

• Not appearing in court for a scheduled hearing.
• Neglecting to answer a subpoena.
• Not paying a fine.
• Failing to provide proof of participation in court-ordered community services or other prescribed activities.

When a bench warrant is issued against you, it is added to a statewide database. If you are stopped by a law enforcement officer for any reason, you could be arrested immediately. You may also have trouble if you try to take a trip by airplane or travel in and out of the country. It is in your best interest to address the outstanding bench warrant as soon as possible.

Laws and court procedures may be different in various locations, so it is a good practice to check with the court that issued the bench warrant to find out how to deal with a bench warrant in a specific location in Pennsylvania.

An experienced bench warrants lawyer can help you navigate the process for dealing correctly with a bench warrant to ensure that it is lifted. The lawyer can represent you in court and handle any complications that might occur such as being held in contempt, or having your bail revoked. In some situations, the judge may increase your bail and demand that you pay the increased bail before you are released. Sometimes when your bail is forfeited, you may be required to pay a significant fine to the county or city where the bench warrant was issued.

Can a Bench Warrant be Dropped?

To handle a bench warrant correctly, the best thing to do is physically appear in court to ensure that the bench warrant is lifted. In rare cases, it is possible to have a lawyer appear in court on your behalf to handle the matter. However, the most expedient legal action is to have a criminal defense lawyer resolving bench warrants appear with you in court to help you navigate the process and clear your name.

How Long do Bench Warrants last in Pennsylvania?

Bench warrants do not have an expiration date; they never expire. They remain active until the subject of the warrant:

1. Is deceased.
2. Is arrested for the outstanding bench warrant.
3. Appears in court to address and resolve the matter with the judge.

Because a bench warrant has no expiration date, you could be taken into police custody for an outstanding warrant at any time, anywhere. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can review your situation and work with the courts to resolve the matter and avoid the unnecessary complications of an outstanding bench warrant.

If you are arrested for an outstanding bench warrant, it is important to have legal representation to prepare for your day in court. The warrant may have been issued in error or the judge did not have probable cause to issue the bench warrant.

If you have problems with the law in Philadelphia, Delaware, Montgomery, Bucks, Chester counties, you may be obliged to appear in court for various hearings while your case is pending. If you fail to appear in court, as ordered, or fail to meet the conditions of bail, a court may issue a bench warrant for your arrest. Once a bench warrant is issued, your name is added to a police database. Simply put, any interaction with the police or government authorities will likely lead to your immediate arrest or detention. An arrest on a bench warrant can result in negative consequences such as being detained in jail until authorities organize transportation for you. When a court issues a bench warrant for your arrest, you should contact a professional Philadelphia criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. If you are looking for experts to handle your bench warrant resolution, a criminal defense attorney from Rooney Philly Lawyer will resolve your case without you having to go to jail.

Reasons for Bench Warrants Being Issued in Pennsylvania

A bench warrant for your arrest may be issued if you:

1. fail to appear at court hearing as required
2. fail to pay fines, fees or child support
3. violate a court order

Penalties If Arrested On a Bench Warrant

If you are arrested by police for a violation unrelated to your bench warrant, such as speeding or contacting airport personnel, you will likely be placed in detention. In some cases, bail can’t be provided, so you will have to wait in custody until you are transported to the corresponding county courthouse for a hearing. If you fail to appear at hearings or purposely commit some other violations, you may receive more severe penalties and consequences.

The judge and the District Attorney’s Office will take into account your previous criminal history, record since the initial arrest, and other factors to determine your options. Therefore, you need an experienced and competent criminal defense lawyer who will find the best solution for you.

Call A Philadelphia Criminal Defense Lawyer Today!

Philadelphia criminal defense attorneys from Rooney Philly Lawyer can handle your case properly and proactively find the solution to your bench warrant situation. Serving in Philadelphia, Delaware, Montgomery, Bucks, Chester counties, we will fight for your rights and attempt to limit or minimize the consequences of your pending case.

Our practice area is extensive. If you have encountered drug crime charges and seek legal help, contact Rooney Philly Lawyer, your personal defense attorney.