Many people worry about their future after being served with bench warrant. But the outcomes that result from bench warrant proceedings are generally milder than those for arrest warrants. Nonetheless, it is important to educate yourself about the facts surrounding bench warrants to ensure that you are staying within the limits of the law, thus protecting your rights and preserving your freedoms.
Continue reading to review some frequently asked questions about bench warrants that might help you achieve this level of understanding.
Bench Warrant FAQS You Need to Know
What is a Bench Warrant? Is the Same as an Arrest Warrant?
In contrast to arrest warrants, bench warrants are used for minor cases, mostly citations and similar petty infractions such as traffic tickets or j-walking. A bench warrant is issued by the courts when a person misses their trial for a minor case or infraction, also known as an “FTA”, or “failure to appear.” The word “bench” in bench warrant essentially implies the judge’s seat, and requests that you answer to the court for both your original charge and now for your FTA offense.
Do I Have to Respond to a Bench Warrant?
If you do not take care of a bench warrant responsibly and in a way that the state or county expects you to, then you could be faced with an actual arrest warrant, which would force you to surrender to the jail. To respond to a bench warrant, contact the county clerks’ office and notify them that you got the document. From there, they will make arrangements for you to appear in court or see a judge, plus pay the assigned bail.
Do I Need a Bail Bond for a Bench Warrant?
If you cannot afford to pay the bail, you may be able to hire a licensed Indiana bail bondsman to act as a surety. They will cover the full cost, but only charge you a small, nonrefundable fee. Unfortunately, most bail bondsmen will not cover bail payments for bench warrants. If you are arrested for an outstanding bench warrant, you can contact a bail bondsman in Indiana to get you out of jail. This bail bond fee would be separate from your bench warrant bail payments.
Will I Spend Time in Jail for a Bench Warrant?
Probably not, but in the case of negligence, you might. If you do not satisfy your bench warrant obligations, you will eventually have an outstanding bench warrant against you. In this case, police can arrest you on the spot if you have an encounter with them, even if something innocent. For instance, if you are rear-ended by another driver, the responding officer can take you into custody once they run your information and see that you have an outstanding bench warrant.
Do you need to surrender to an arrest warrant or get a friend out of jail? Are you looking for the easiest and fastest way to do that? Contact Woods Bail Bonds at 317-876-9600 for the fastest and friendliest bail bond services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate or information, anytime.
Related Posts:
What is a Bench Warrant?
Do I Surrender to the Jail for a Bench Warrant?
How an Arrest Warrant Will Affect You in Indiana