Knowing whether you have an outstanding warrant is crucial. An outstanding warrant means law enforcement has an active order for your arrest, and encountering law enforcement could lead to immediate detention. This guide will outline several ways to check for outstanding warrants and explain what to do if you find one.
Where Can I Check for Warrants?
This is often the first and most pressing question. Unfortunately, there isn't a single, nationwide database accessible to the public. The process depends significantly on your location.
1. Checking Your Local County Sheriff's Office Website:
Many county sheriff's offices maintain online databases where you can search for warrants. These databases usually require you to enter your name and sometimes other identifying information like your date of birth. The information provided might be limited, but it's a good starting point. Remember to search the county where you were last known to reside, and also any county where you have spent significant time. You might have a warrant from an area you haven't lived in for a while.
2. Contacting Your Local Police Department:
Calling your local police department directly is another option. While they may not publicly list warrants online, they can often check their internal databases to see if any warrants exist against you. Be prepared to provide your full name, date of birth, and any other identifying information they request. This approach is often more discreet than using an online search.
3. Using a Warrant Search Website (Use Caution!):
Several websites offer warrant searches for a fee. While some of these sites may be legitimate, others are scams or provide unreliable information. Proceed with caution and be wary of any site that requests excessive personal information or significant payment upfront. It's generally advisable to exhaust the free options outlined above before resorting to paid services. Even with paid services, there is no guarantee of complete accuracy.
4. Hiring a Private Investigator:
In situations requiring higher discretion or where you have reason to believe a warrant exists but are unable to find it through other means, a private investigator can be helpful. They have access to databases and techniques not available to the public. This is the most expensive option but offers a level of confidentiality and thoroughness that other methods may lack.
What Happens if I Find Out I Have an Outstanding Warrant?
Discovering you have an outstanding warrant can be alarming, but panicking is not the answer.
1. Don't Ignore It:
Ignoring the warrant will not make it disappear; in fact, it will likely escalate the situation. The longer you wait, the more serious the consequences could be, potentially including additional charges.
2. Contact an Attorney Immediately:
This is the most critical step. An attorney can advise you on the best course of action, which may involve surrendering yourself, negotiating a plea bargain, or challenging the warrant's validity.
3. Turn Yourself In (Under the Right Circumstances):
In some cases, voluntarily turning yourself in might be advisable, particularly if you wish to show remorse and cooperate with the authorities. However, you must do this with legal counsel. They can guide you through the surrender process to ensure you’re treated fairly.
4. Prepare for Potential Consequences:
Depending on the nature of the warrant, the consequences can vary greatly. You might face arrest, fines, jail time, and other penalties. Having an attorney present will ensure you are aware of and understand all potential outcomes.
How Often Should I Check for Warrants?
There's no set schedule, but checking periodically, especially if you've had any legal issues in the past, is a prudent practice. Consider checking once a year or whenever significant life changes occur (moving to a new state, etc.).
This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a legal professional for personalized advice related to your specific circumstances.
