It’s a familiar scene in police dramas and reality shows. Someone is pulled over for a minor traffic violation, the officer runs their name, and suddenly there’s an outstanding warrant. Handcuffs come out, and the person is taken into custody.
While it may seem dramatic on television, this situation happens every day in real life.
What Is a Warrant?
A warrant is a legal document that authorizes law enforcement to take specific action. There are two common types.
A bench warrant is typically issued when someone fails to comply with a court order. This may include missing a court appearance, failing to pay a fine, or not complying with child or spousal support orders.
An arrest warrant is issued when law enforcement has evidence that a person has committed a crime and seeks authorization to arrest them.
What Happens If You Ignore a Warrant?
Ignoring a warrant does not make it go away. In fact, it usually makes the situation worse.
If you are stopped for a minor traffic violation and have an outstanding warrant, you will likely be arrested and your vehicle may be impounded.
If you are arrested at home, your children may witness the arrest. If they are underage and no other caregiver is present, they could be temporarily placed into foster care.
If the arrest happens at work, you may face embarrassment in front of coworkers and risk losing your job.
If you attempt to travel, especially by air or internationally, you may be detained at the airport under the assumption that you are attempting to flee.
All of these situations can often be avoided by addressing the warrant ahead of time.
Why Being Proactive Matters
Handling a warrant proactively allows you to maintain some control over the situation.
For minor issues such as unpaid traffic tickets, resolving the matter may involve posting bond, signing paperwork, or paying fines and court costs before an arrest occurs.
For more serious charges, contacting an attorney is important. An attorney may be able to arrange a court date, request a bond amount, or negotiate release conditions.
In many cases, taking action early allows you to surrender yourself at a police station or courthouse rather than being arrested unexpectedly. This also gives you time to plan ahead, arrange time off work, and avoid turning yourself in late in the week when court closures could result in spending the weekend in jail.
Turning Yourself In Can Work in Your Favor
Voluntarily addressing a warrant shows the court that you are taking responsibility. Judges often view this more favorably than forcing law enforcement to locate and arrest you.
Planning ahead also allows you to contact a bail bond agent in advance, which can significantly reduce the amount of time spent in custody.
Help With Warrants in Florida
Ignoring a warrant will not make it disappear. If you have an outstanding warrant and need help in Florida, Mercy Bail Bonds is here for you.
Our experienced team can help make arrangements to get you released quickly, sometimes within a few hours.
Call Mercy Bail Bonds at (727) 856-7775 anytime, 24/7. We’re here to help.