What To Do When There's A Warrant Out For Your Arrest In Arizona

When individuals in Arizona suddenly face criminal charges or arrest warrants, it's often unexpected and can be incredibly stressful. Not knowing about a warrant until the police arrive adds to the confusion and fear. However, whether you're aware of an investigation or are surprised by an arrest, it's crucial to understand your rights and the appropriate actions to take.

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If you have been issued a warrant for your arrest in Arizona, it's important that you speak with an attorney. When working with our law firm, you will have an experienced attorney who is easily accessible, has a great reputation, and has a lot of experience handling different criminal matters. Reach out to our attorney, Alex Benikov, at The Benikov Law Firm today and receive a free consultation to help you determine your next steps. 

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Facing an arrest warrant in Arizona can be confusing and stressful. This guide sheds light on how warrants work and what they entail.

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Types Of Warrants And How They Are Issued In Arizona

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You might encounter two main types of warrants in Arizona: bench and arrest warrants.

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Bench Warrant: A Bench Warrant is issued for failing to appear for a required court hearing in a criminal case. This is because skipping court disrupts the legal process and demonstrates a disregard for the justice system according to Arizona law. A Bench Warrant is considered a Class 5 felony in Arizona, carrying potential jail time and fines. If encountered, cooperate with authorities and immediately consult an attorney to address the underlying reason for the missed hearing.

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Arrest Warrants: Arrest Warrants are issued when there's probable cause to believe someone committed a crime. This is because probable cause suggests a legitimate basis for arrest and ensures public safety while the accused faces trial.

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Arrest Warrants can be issued through three avenues:

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• Grand jury indictment: When a grand jury believes there's sufficient evidence to charge someone with a felony, they issue an indictment, automatically triggering a warrant.

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• Judge's finding of probable cause: If a judge, after reviewing police reports or affidavits, believes there's probable cause to believe someone committed a crime, they can issue a warrant independent of an indictment.

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• Prosecutor's complaint and judge's finding of probable cause: This is the most common scenario. A prosecutor files a complaint outlining the alleged crime and evidence, and the judge reviews it. If there's probable cause, they issue a warrant for the suspect's arrest.

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What Must An Arrest Warrant In Arizona Include?

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To be valid, an arrest warrant in Arizona must contain the following information:

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1. Name of the accused: A reasonably detailed description must be provided if the name is unknown.

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2. Specific charges against the suspect: The warrant must clearly state the crime(s) the suspect is accused of committing.

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3. The trigger for victim rights: If the charges qualify for specific victim rights protections, like notification or confidentiality, the warrant will indicate this.

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4. Signature and authority: The warrant must be signed by a judge, magistrate, or deputy clerk of the superior court, signifying its legal validity.

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What Happens After An Arrest Warrant Is Issued?

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With the warrant, law enforcement can legally arrest the named individual. The person will be detained and have their initial court appearance, where they'll be informed of the charges and have the opportunity to secure legal representation.

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Steps To Take If There Is A Warrant Out For Your Arrest

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It's essential to understand what to do when you've been issued a warrant for your arrest and how an attorney can help your situation. Here is a simple list of steps that can help guide you through this matter.

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1. Stay Calm and Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent: In such tense situations, staying calm is vital. Under the Fifth Amendment, you have the right to remain silent. It's essential not to answer questions about the alleged crime or your whereabouts. Politely but firmly, state your wish to speak with an attorney before discussing anything further.

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2. Contact an Experienced Arizona Criminal Defense Attorney: Securing a knowledgeable lawyer is the most crucial step. They will safeguard your rights, guide you through the legal proceedings, and strive for the best outcome. They'll examine the charges, evaluate the strength of the evidence, and advise on possible legal motions or plea deals.

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3. Do Not Resist Arrest or Attempt to Hide: Resisting arrest can lead to more charges and potentially endanger you. If there's a warrant, cooperate with the police, but remember to maintain your right to silence.

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4. Gather Relevant Documents and Paperwork: Collect materials that might aid your case, like police reports, witness statements, or other evidence. Share this information solely with your lawyer, not the police.

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5. Discuss Your Case Only with Your Lawyer: Anything you say can be used against you in court. Therefore, limiting discussions about your case to your legal representative is crucial. Conversations with friends or family could inadvertently harm your defense.

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Understanding these steps and your rights can significantly impact the outcome of your case. It's about safeguarding your rights and ensuring you can navigate the legal system with the best possible support and defense.

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Contact A Criminal Defense Attorney In Phoenix

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If you or a loved one have been issued a warrant for your arrest, we understand this is a very stressful time in your life. The most important step you can take right now is consulting with an experienced attorney who has extensive knowledge of the criminal justice system and how to handle your legal matter. If you choose to work with our firm, you will always have direct access to your attorney and will be working with one of Arizona's most knowledgeable criminal attorneys.

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Our firm serves the areas of Phoenix, Mesa, Scottsdale, Glendale, Tempe, Chandler, and other areas around Arizona. If you or a loved one have been issued an arrest warrant in Arizona, please contact us today to schedule your free consultation.