Types of Warrants That Can Lead to Arrest
Not all warrants are the same. The way a warrant is handled depends on its type and the reason it was issued.
- Bench Warrant – Issued by a judge, usually when someone misses a scheduled court date or fails to comply with a court order. These are common in cases involving traffic violations, misdemeanors, and unpaid fines.
- Arrest Warrant – Issued when law enforcement has probable cause to believe a crime has been committed. These are typically requested by prosecutors or police officers as part of an investigation.
- Failure to Appear Warrant – A type of bench warrant issued when someone does not show up for a required court hearing. Even for minor offenses, missing a court date can result in a warrant.
Ignoring a warrant won’t make it go away. Instead, it increases the risk of being arrested at an unexpected time, such as during a routine traffic stop, at work, or even at home.
How to Check If You Have a Warrant
If you’re unsure whether a warrant has been issued for your arrest, there are a few ways to find out:
- Utah’s Online Warrant Search – Utah provides an online database where you can check for active warrants.
- Contacting the Court or Sheriff’s Office – A court clerk or law enforcement agency may be able to confirm whether a warrant exists. However, providing your identity could lead to immediate action.
- Consulting an Attorney – An attorney can check for active warrants on your behalf and help you understand your options.
Steps to Take If You Have a Warrant
If you discover that a warrant has been issued, taking immediate action can help prevent additional legal consequences.
Understand Why the Warrant Was Issued
The reason behind the warrant determines how it should be handled. A bench warrant for missing a court date, for example, may be resolved differently than an arrest warrant for a criminal charge.
Avoid Situations Where You Could Be Arrested
Law enforcement can arrest you at any time if a warrant is active. Many people are taken into custody during routine encounters, such as traffic stops or background checks.
Explore Options to Resolve the Warrant
Depending on the circumstances, a warrant may be handled in several ways:
- Scheduling a court appearance – In some cases, courts allow individuals to appear voluntarily to address the warrant.
- Requesting a warrant recall – Judges may agree to recall a warrant if the underlying issue (such as an unpaid fine) is resolved.
- Posting bail – If bail has been set, paying it may allow you to remain out of custody while your case moves forward.
Prepare for a Possible Court Hearing
If the warrant stems from a criminal case, a court appearance may be required. Understanding the possible outcomes and preparing in advance can make a difference in how the case proceeds.
Consider Voluntary Surrender
In some situations, voluntarily surrendering at a designated time and place may result in more lenient treatment. Courts often consider a person’s willingness to address the issue when determining penalties.
Consequences of Ignoring a Warrant
Failing to take action on a warrant can lead to:
- Increased penalties – Additional fines or legal consequences may be imposed.
- Suspended driver’s license – Some warrants result in automatic license suspensions.
- Unexpected arrest – Many people with warrants are arrested at inconvenient times, such as during routine traffic stops or at their place of employment.
Final Thoughts
If you have a warrant, addressing it as soon as possible can help prevent unnecessary complications. Understanding the type of warrant, knowing your options, and taking proactive steps can help you resolve the situation in the most efficient way possible.