How to Find Out if You Have a Warrant in Pennsylvania
If you suspect there may be a warrant issued for your arrest in Pennsylvania, taking prompt action can protect your rights and help you manage the situation proactively.
An active warrant means that law enforcement has the legal authority to arrest you on sight, so understanding how to verify this status and what steps to take next can make a significant difference in your case.
At Worgul, Sarna & Ness, our criminal defense attorneys can assist you in navigating complex legal procedures and ensure that you handle a warrant appropriately. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your options and next steps.
Types of Warrants in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, there are primarily two types of warrants: bench warrants and arrest warrants.
Bench Warrants
A bench warrant is issued when someone fails to appear for a scheduled court date or violates a court order, minor offenses often trigger bench warrants but can lead to serious consequences. For example, missing a hearing related to unpaid fines, minor traffic violations, or probation requirements may prompt a judge to issue a bench warrant.
Once issued, a bench warrant empowers law enforcement to arrest you on sight, often catching individuals off guard by targeting them at home, work, or even during routine traffic stops. Because a bench warrant remains active until you appear before the court, ignoring it can lead to escalated penalties, including additional fines, jail time, or limitations on your driver’s license.
Arrest Warrants
Unlike bench warrants, arrest warrants in Pennsylvania are issued based on probable cause that you committed a crime. Probable cause is a legal standard when there’s sufficient evidence to believe an individual may have engaged in criminal activity. Arrest warrants are often sought for more serious criminal cases, including felonies and certain misdemeanors, and provide police with the authority to arrest you at any time.
With an arrest warrant, officers can enter private residences or workplaces to take you into custody, especially if there’s reason to believe you’re evading arrest. Because arrest warrants involve a legal affidavit and judge approval, they can impact your case significantly if left unaddressed, potentially leading to tougher bail conditions or enhanced charges.
How to Check if You Have an Active Warrant
Finding out if you have a warrant in Pennsylvania involves several methods, each offering varying levels of privacy, speed, and accuracy.
Check Online Warrant Searches
Some Pennsylvania counties provide online tools or databases for searching for active warrants. For instance, the website in Montgomery County provides warrant information.
While this can be a convenient first step, it’s not always comprehensive since each county maintains separate records, and not all offer online access.
Contact Local Courts or Clerk Offices
You may also call the clerk’s office or local courthouse for warrant information. However, this process can be time-consuming, and without an attorney, you might reveal details that could complicate your case.
Consult the Pennsylvania State Police
For statewide information, you can contact the Pennsylvania State Police directly. Although they may not release all details over the phone, they can guide you on the appropriate steps to obtain this information.
Seek Help from a Criminal Defense Attorney
Attorneys have specific access and strategies to check for warrants while protecting your privacy. Our Worgul, Sarna & Ness team can conduct these searches discreetly and provide guidance on handling any issues related to an active warrant.
What to Do if You Have a Warrant
Knowing you have a warrant can be intimidating, but there are steps you can take to handle the situation effectively.
1. Do Not Ignore the Warrant
Ignoring a warrant won’t make it disappear; it may actually increase your legal risk. Courts are more likely to view cooperation favorably, which can affect your case outcome.
2. Seek Legal Counsel
Contact a criminal defense attorney who can offer insight on managing the warrant and protecting your rights. We can help you understand any conditions tied to the warrant and devise a strategy for resolving it favorably.
3. Consider Turning Yourself In
Turning yourself in can sometimes be beneficial, especially if you’ve sought legal guidance. Your attorney can often arrange a time for you to appear in court, which may reduce the chances of a surprise arrest.
The Benefits of Proactively Addressing Warrants
Addressing a warrant with the help of an attorney can help you avoid unexpected arrests, manage court expectations, and potentially improve your standing in the legal process.
At Worgul, Sarna & Ness, we’re here to help you understand your legal options. If you suspect there may be a warrant for your arrest, call us at (412) 281-2146 today for a free, initial consultation. We’ll walk you through each step and work to protect your future.