Bench warrants are orders from a judge that permit law enforcement officers to detain a person facing criminal charges. Unlike an arrest warrant, these orders aren’t always pursued immediately and can linger for years without the defendant ever knowing. As a result, some may be surprised to learn that they have to report to jail for matters that occurred years ago. While the experience can be alarming, there are several resources out there to help you—such as attorneys and bail bond agents. To help you navigate this process, here are a few basic points to know about responding to a bench warrant in Texas.

Why Would I Have a Bench Warrant?

Texas Penal Code 38.10 details the specifics of when bench warrants may be issued. They’re typically reserved for those who fail to appear in court to address minor charges—such as unresolved traffic tickets.

How Do I Know If I Have One?

When a judge orders a bench warrant, the defendant’s information is logged into an online database. Anytime you interact with law enforcement, they may check this database, inform you of the warrant, and arrest you on the spot.

However, you don’t have to wait for law enforcement to notify you. In many cases, you can search an online database—such as those provided by your county’s sheriff’s office—to find out if a bench warrant has been taken out for you.  

What Should I Do If I Have a Bench Warrant?

When you are notified of a bench warrant during other police matters, the responding law enforcement will arrest you and bring you to jail for processing. If you’ve learned of the order independently, you should report to your local jail as soon as you can.

Once you are arrested, a hearing will be scheduled to review the charges behind the warrant and determine an apt punishment, if applicable. Whatever the case, hire an attorney to ensure you are fairly represented at every stage of the hearing.

How Can I Avoid Jail When Responding to a Bench Warrant?

Once you arrive at the jail, you’ll likely be able to post bail. If you don’t have enough cash on hand to cover the amount, a bail bond agent can provide the funds for an additional fee.

Posting bail allows you to stay out of jail until your court date. If you miss your hearing, the entire bail amount will be forfeited.  

If you are facing a bench warrant in the Texarkana, TX, area, Bi-State Bail Bonds is here to help. Providing speedy, 24-hour bail bonds, this agency will streamline the process so you can stay out of jail and prepared for your upcoming hearing. Understanding the weight of these matters, this team will work quickly to process your request. To learn more about their solutions, visit this local bail bond agent online or call (903) 794-2245 with questions.