Professional Warrant Attorney in Santa Monica
My Rights Law will help you reduce the consequences of your outstanding bench or arrest warrant in Santa Monica
If you have an outstanding arrest or bench warrant in Santa Monica, it’s vital to seek legal assistance without delay. At My Rights Law, our dedicated criminal defense attorneys specialize in warrant cases and have a successful history of representing clients. We will carefully assess your situation, provide strategic guidance, and vigorously defend your rights. Don’t navigate this challenging situation alone—reach out to My Rights Law at (424) 421-2330 or utilize our secure online form to schedule a free consultation and safeguard your rights.
Ready to speak with a Santa Monica bench warrant attorney? Contact us now at (424) 421-2330 or contact us online.
Benefits of a lawyer for warrants
Having a skilled attorney by your side when dealing with a warrant can provide significant benefits. An experienced lawyer in Santa Monica can offer assertive representation and essential support throughout the legal process. They may help mitigate or even eliminate potential repercussions, especially if you are not guilty of the charges. Additionally, a lawyer can guide you on the best approach to manage the warrant, represent you in court, and work to prevent further charges like contempt of court.
Can Santa Monica Criminal Defense Attorney help me with a warrant?
Absolutely. An attorney from My Rights Law in Santa Monica can: Investigate the circumstances surrounding the alleged crime and strive to prevent charges from being filed, which may stop a warrant from being issued. Accompany you to court if you decide to turn yourself in, helping you avoid the humiliation of an arrest at your home or workplace. Advocate for your bail or release on your own recognizance. Challenge the legality of the arrest warrant to safeguard your rights and potentially have it dismissed.
Contact our Santa Monica Bench Warrants Attorneys quickly
If you’re confronted with a bench warrant in Santa Monica due to a failure to appear in court, it’s critical to act promptly. Our team at My Rights Law specializes in handling bench warrants and is committed to providing strong representation to protect your freedom. We will clarify the laws in Santa Monica regarding bench warrants and other outstanding warrants, explaining how they may affect you. For personalized legal advice and to better understand your situation, don’t hesitate to contact us at (424) 421-2330 right away, or use our secure online form for your convenience.
FAQS About Bench Warrant Charges
What is a bench warrant vs. an arrest warrant?
In Santa Monica, the distinction between a bench warrant and an arrest warrant is crucial. A bench warrant is typically issued when an individual fails to appear for a court date or comply with a court order, rather than due to suspicion of criminal activity. It is named after the judge (or “bench”) who issues it. On the other hand, an arrest warrant is issued when law enforcement has probable cause to believe someone has committed a crime. Understanding this difference is essential for anyone navigating the complexities of the legal system.
How does a bench warrant work in Santa Monica?
A bench warrant operates as a court order mandating law enforcement to arrest an individual who has failed to appear for a scheduled court hearing in Santa Monica. If you discover that a bench warrant has been issued in your name, it is advisable to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney to address the situation promptly. Once a bench warrant is active, police have the authority to arrest you at any time, which underscores the importance of taking swift action.
How long does a bench warrant last in Santa Monica?
In Santa Monica, bench warrants are indefinite and do not expire. They remain active on your record until you take the necessary steps to resolve the warrant. This lack of expiration is critical to understand, as individuals cannot simply wait out the warrant; it will stay on record and could lead to future complications, including unexpected arrests or legal actions. Thus, it is imperative to seek legal counsel to navigate the resolution process effectively.
How to take care of a bench warrant?
Addressing a bench warrant should be a top priority to avoid the risk of arrest. The best course of action is to consult with a reputable criminal defense lawyer, such as those at My Rights Law. They can provide the guidance needed to address the bench warrant and may assist in quashing it, potentially preventing any immediate arrest. Taking proactive measures is essential for protecting your rights and minimizing the impact of the warrant on your life.
What are arrest warrants?
Arrest warrants grant law enforcement the authority to apprehend individuals suspected of committing crimes. In Santa Monica, arrest warrants are typically issued after an investigation has identified a suspect and established probable cause. The warrant will include crucial details such as the suspect’s name, the alleged crime, and the judge’s signature. It’s important to understand that police cannot arrest you without a warrant unless they witness a crime taking place. Therefore, knowing your rights and the nature of any warrants against you is vital.
What is failure to appear?
Failure to appear is a serious offense in California, outlined in Penal Codes 1320 and 1320.5. This charge applies if you were required to appear in court and did not do so, either after being released on your own recognizance or while out on bail. The consequences depend on the nature of the original charges: failing to appear for a misdemeanor will typically result in a misdemeanor charge, whereas a failure to appear for a felony can escalate to a felony offense. Understanding these implications is essential for anyone involved in the legal system.
What are the penalties for failure to appear in Santa Monica?
In Santa Monica, the consequences for failing to appear in court can be quite severe, including:
Up to six months in county jail and a fine.
A potential one to three-year sentence in jail or prison.
These penalties are in addition to any repercussions related to the original offense. Notably, if you are out on bail and fail to appear, you may face even harsher charges under California law. It’s crucial to engage with a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney to fully comprehend the risks and develop a strategy to mitigate the penalties you may face.
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Ready to speak with a Santa Monica bench warrant attorney? Contact us now at (424) 421-2330 or contact us online.