What do I do if I have a bench warrant?
A bench warrant (also known as a “body attachment”) is the most common type of warrant issued in California. A bench warrant refers to a warrant that is issued from the bench, meaning the judge. Bench warrants are issued pursuant to California Penal Code sections 166 and 978.5.
When a person fails to appear for a scheduled hearing in criminal court, the Judge may issue a bench warrant. (Penal Code Section 978.5) The bench warrant allows peace officers to arrest the person on sight. If not taken care of a bench warrant can result in arrest, detention, forfeiture of bail, and suspension of your driver’s license. Under certain circumstances, a bench warrant can be resolved by appearing before the court, explaining the failure to appear, and asking for the bench warrant to be withdrawn.
Bench warrants should be handled as soon as possible. If you have a bench warrant, you should call a skilled criminal defense lawyer to take care of it for you. Please contact Oakland criminal defense attorney/Oakland DUI attorney Robbi Cook at (510)208-5051 for a free consultation. Oakland criminal attorney.
