When you get a knock at your door, the last thing you expect is to see the police at your door. However, this situation can grow more severe when they show you an arrest warrant with your name on it. Unfortunately, these matters are not uncommon, so understanding your legal options is critical. The following blog explores what you should know about these matters, including the importance of working with an experienced Sacramento criminal defense lawyer to help protect your rights during these difficult times.
What Is An Arrest Warrant, and What Information Is Included?
In California, when the police witness you commit a crime, they can take the necessary steps to place you under arrest without first obtaining a warrant. However, when someone reports a crime and accuses you of being the perpetrator, law enforcement cannot simply take their word for it and assume you are a criminal. Instead, they must take the necessary steps to gather information before obtaining an arrest warrant.
Typically, when you are accused of a criminal offense, the police will conduct an investigation and obtain as much information as possible. Once they gather enough evidence to show that you likely committed the crime, they will approach a judge who is responsible for examining the evidence and issuing a warrant.
A warrant must contain a considerable amount of information to be legally binding. This includes the city and court overseeing the case, the name of the defendant, the crime they are accused of when the warrant was issued, and the signature of the judge responsible for issuing the warrant.
Once the warrant has been issued, the police are legally required to execute it at your place of residence, as they will likely need to search your residence. However, under some circumstances, a warrant can be executed at your place of employment. Felony warrants can be executed at any time, while misdemeanor warrants are generally carried out between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m.
What Should I Do if I’m in Legal Trouble?
In California, the easiest way to determine if there is a warrant for your arrest is to conduct an online search. Generally, this information is available through an online database search from your county court or the Superior Court of California. When a warrant is issued, the county clerk will input this information into the database, so you may search to see if there is a pending warrant.
If there is a warrant out for your arrest in California, the most important thing you can do is immediately contact an experienced criminal defense attorney. Not only can discussing these matters with an attorney help you better understand what to expect, but working with a lawyer can also help ensure your rights are protected during this process. They may be able to call the court and arrange a time for you to turn yourself in to avoid the trauma of being arrested in your home. In addition, they can fight to have your bail reduced, if not, have you released on your own recognizance, meaning you do not have to post bail.
At the Law Offices of Dale R. Gomes, we understand how difficult these matters can be to navigate. That is why our team is committed to taking every step possible to provide you with the most effective defense. We will fight for the best possible outcome during these difficult times to discuss your legal options. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you.
