WARRANTS

A warrant is a document issued by a legal or government official authorizing the police or some other body to make an arrest, search premises, or carry out some other action relating to the administration of justice.

There are 2 main types of warrants:

1. Arrest Warrants

2. Bench Warrants

An arrest warrant is issued if law enforcement believes that you have committed a crime.

Bench warrants are issued by judges if, in the progress of a criminal case, you have defied a court order, otherwise known as being in contempt of court. A bench warrant authorizes the police to arrest you on the spot and detain you on bail. If you have failed to appear at a court date, failed to pay a fine, failed to complete community service, attend court-ordered counseling, or some other sentencing terms, or failed to follow any court order, you may be placed in contempt and be subject to a bench warrant, be sent to jail, fined, or face other penalties.

If you have either an arrest warrant or bench warrant, you need an experienced attorney who can file a motion with the court to quash or recall the warrant. If this motion is granted, the warrant is terminated and you will be allowed to remain free pending resolution of your case. If an active warrant is not corrected, you may be arrested and put in jail for an extended period of time. If you have an arrest warrant or a bench warrant, you need an experienced attorney who is familiar with the court process and has handled warrants. Cal Stafilatos has handled thousands of arrest and bench warrants during his near 20 year career as a Maryland attorney.