There Is a Warrant for My Arrest. What Should I Do?

 Posted on December 19, 2024 in Criminal Defense

It can be overwhelming and distressing to discover that a warrant has been issued for your arrest. As difficult as it can be, it is important to stay calm and figure out what it means. Acting quickly and responsibly can help you avoid making the situation worse. An experienced Illinois criminal defense lawyer can help you understand your warrant and what to do about it.

What Is an Arrest Warrant?

An arrest warrant is a legal order issued by a judge authorizing law enforcement officers to arrest you. A warrant is typically issued in various situations including when someone:

• Is accused of committing a crime

• Fails to appear in court

• Does not follow the terms of a court order

If there is a warrant for your arrest, the police can arrest you at any time, whether you are at home, work, or in public. In some cases, they might actively search for you; in others, they might wait until you have contact with law enforcement, such as during a traffic stop.

Step 1: Confirm the Warrant

If you think there is a warrant for your arrest, the first thing you need to do is confirm this. There are several options for how to confirm it:

• You can inquire with the county court clerk in the relevant county. 

• Depending on the county, you might be able to check online to see if there is a warrant for your arrest. 

• You can speak with a criminal defense attorney who can verify the warrant on your behalf.

Step 2: Address the Warrant

An arrest warrant will not simply go away if you ignore it. Avoiding the issue can end up leading to more serious consequences, such as additional charges or a higher bond. It is better to address the warrant as soon as possible and show that you are willing to cooperate with the authorities.

Step 3: Contact an Attorney

Once you confirm the warrant, you should contact a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney who can explain your rights, review your options, and guide you through the process. In some cases, an attorney can negotiate on your behalf to minimize the impact of the warrant.

For example, he or she might arrange with the police that you will turn yourself in at a specific time and location, which can reduce the chances of being arrested in an unexpected or distressing situation.

Step 4: Turn Yourself In

Depending on the case, it can be better to turn yourself in rather than wait to be arrested. This demonstrates to the court that you want to cooperate and are taking it seriously. Before you surrender yourself, speak with your attorney about what to expect.

Step 5: Prepare for Bond Hearing

After you turn yourself in, you might be eligible for bond. This can allow you to be released while your case moves through the legal system. Your lawyer can help you prepare for a bond hearing and explain which factors might influence the bond amount.

Step 6: Stay Calm and Be Cooperative

Remaining calm and being cooperative with law enforcement and court officials can help make the process smoother for you. Let your attorney handle negotiations and legal arguments while you focus on following instructions.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Kane County, IL Criminal Defense Lawyer

For many people, particularly those who have not had encounters with law enforcement before, an arrest warrant can be quite distressing. A qualified Elgin, IL criminal defense attorney can explain what it means and advise you on how you should proceed. At The Law Office of Brian J. Mirandola, we are dedicated to providing our clients with guidance to help them navigate stressful situations and protect their rights. Call us at 847-488-0889 to schedule a free consultation so we can work on a plan to represent you.