Criminal Defense: What Is A Bench Warrant In Florida?

An arrest warrant is a court-issued document that authorizes law enforcement to arrest and detain a person who is suspected of committing a crime. The warrant is issued by a judge and contains details about the charges, the suspect’s identity, and, in many cases, the location where they may be found. A bench warrant is a type of arrest warrant. Most often, it is issued by a judge when the rules of the court have been violated. A bench warrant should never be ignored. Here, our Orlando criminal defense lawyer explains key things that you should know about bench warrants in Florida. 

A Bench Warrant is Similar to an Arrest Warrant 

A bench warrant is similar to an arrest warrant in that both authorize law enforcement to detain a person. The main difference between the two is how they are issued. A Florida judge issues a bench warrant when an individual fails to appear in court, or otherwise violates the terms of a court order. Notably, a bench warrant grants state or local police officers the power to arrest a person, take them into custody, and bring them to the court.

In contrast, an arrest warrant is issued when there is probable cause to believe that a person has committed a crime. Both types of warrants can result in arrest and detention. Most often, bench warrants in Florida are issued because a person failed to make a court date. In the circumstance, the missed court date could also result in further legal problems related to the underlying case. 

You Can Look Up Arrest Warrant Details in Florida

You can look up arrest warrant details in Florida using the Florida Crime Information Center (FCIC)

database. The FCIC is a comprehensive database maintained by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement that contains information on criminal records, wanted individuals, and active arrest warrants. If you find out that there is a warrant for your arrest, it is crucial that you contact a criminal defense attorney to help you navigate the legal process.

Do Not Ignore it: A Lawyer Can Help You Resolve a Bench Warrant 

Ignoring a bench warrant is not advisable as it can lead to serious consequences. Indeed, it is the single biggest mistake that you can make when facing a warrant. Once a bench warrant is issued, law enforcement can detain you at any time—your freedom and future may be at risk. Be proactive: Consult with an Orlando criminal defense lawyer who can help you resolve the warrant. 

Contact Our Orlando Bench Warrant Defense Attorney Today

At The Baez Law Firm, our Orlando criminal defense lawyers are aggressive, effective, and justice-driven advocates for clients. If you or your loved one is facing a bench warrant, we are here to help. Call us now or connect with us online to set up a confidential, no commitment case review. From our Orlando law office, we handle bench warrant issues throughout Central Florida, including in Kissimmee, Apopka, Winter Garden, Winter Park, Sanford, and Lake Buena Vista.

Source:

pas.fdle.state.fl.us/pas/restricted/PAS/person/WantedPersons.jsf