What to Do After Receiving an Arrest Warrant? admin, February 22, 2023February 25, 2023 Receiving an arrest warrant can be a scary and overwhelming experience. Whether you’re guilty or innocent, the fact that the law is after you can cause stress and anxiety. Adv. Panchanand Shaw But it’s essential to stay calm and take action to ensure that your rights are protected. In this article, we’ll discuss what to do after receiving an arrest warrant and provide you with some helpful tips on how to navigate this situation. What is an arrest warrant? An arrest warrant is a legal document issued by a judge or magistrate that authorizes law enforcement to arrest a person suspected of committing a crime. This warrant gives law enforcement officers the right to enter your home, workplace or any other location to arrest you. What to do after receiving an arrest warrant? If you receive an arrest warrant, the first thing you should do is to stay calm and not panic. Here are some steps you can take to protect your rights and ensure that you receive a fair hearing: Consult with a criminal lawyer It’s essential to hire a criminal defense attorney who has experience in dealing with arrest warrants. An experienced attorney will be able to guide you through the legal process, explain your rights, and advise you on the best course of action. Make sure you hire an attorney as soon as possible because time is of the essence in these situations. Read the arrest warrant carefully Read the arrest warrant carefully to understand the charges against you and the scope of the warrant. Ensure that the warrant is valid and issued by a court of law. If there are any discrepancies, bring them to the attention of your attorney. Turn yourself in If the arrest warrant is valid and you’re guilty of the charges against you, it’s best to turn yourself in. By turning yourself in, you show that you’re taking responsibility for your actions, which can help in your defense. However, do not speak to law enforcement officers without your attorney present. Don’t flee Fleeing the state or country is not a solution to avoid an arrest warrant. It will only lead to more severe charges, including obstruction of justice. It’s best to face the charges against you and cooperate with the legal process. Post bail If you’re arrested, you may be able to post bail. Bail is a sum of money paid to the court as collateral to ensure that you’ll show up for your court appearances. If you don’t show up, you forfeit the bail amount. Your attorney can advise you on whether you’re eligible for bail and the bail amount. Attend all court hearings It’s crucial to attend all court hearings and to comply with all court orders. Failure to attend court hearings can result in additional charges, and a warrant for your arrest may be issued. FAQs Q. What happens if I don’t turn myself in? If you don’t turn yourself in, the police will actively search for you, and the charges against you will become more severe. You’ll be at risk of being arrested at any time and any place, which can cause significant disruption to your life. Q. What happens if I can’t afford an attorney? If you can’t afford an attorney, you may be eligible for a court-appointed attorney. The court will appoint an attorney to represent you at no cost if you meet certain income requirements. Q. Can I negotiate with the prosecutor to drop the charges? It’s possible to negotiate with the prosecutor to drop or reduce the charges against you. However, this can only be done with the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney who can negotiate on your behalf. It’s important to note that the prosecutor has the discretion to decide whether or not to drop the charges, and it’s not a guarantee. Q. Can I fight the arrest warrant in court? Yes, you can fight the arrest warrant in court with the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney. Your attorney can challenge the validity of the warrant or argue that there’s insufficient evidence to support the charges against you. Conclusion: Receiving an arrest warrant can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, but it’s important to stay calm and take action to protect your rights. The first step is to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can guide you through the legal process and advise you on the best course of action. It’s essential to read the arrest warrant carefully, turn yourself in if necessary, and attend all court hearings. Remember that fleeing or ignoring the warrant will only make the situation worse. By following these steps and working with an experienced attorney, you can ensure that you receive a fair hearing and protect your rights. Uncategorized