Debunking 5 Myths About Criminal Warrants in California

Posted on: April 12th, 2024 by Dod Law

There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding criminal warrants that can lead to confusion and unnecessary fear if you happen to have a warrant out in your name. By debunking common myths about criminal warrants in California, we aim to empower you with the knowledge you need to protect your rights and make informed decisions in case you ever find yourself dealing with a criminal warrant.

At Dod Law, we believe that knowledge is power. By debunking these myths about criminal warrants in California, we hope to empower you to take control of your situation and make informed decisions about your legal rights.

5 Common Myths Surrounding Criminal Warrants

Various myths about criminal warrants in California include:

Myth #1: If You Have a Warrant Out for Your Arrest, You Will Be Immediately Taken Into Custody

Some individuals believe that having a criminal warrant automatically means you will go to jail if you are stopped by law enforcement. While being arrested is a possibility when you have an active warrant, there are factors that can influence whether or not you will be taken into custody. For example, if you have a warrant for a minor offense or a misdemeanor, you may be given a citation and a new court date instead of being arrested on the spot. 

While it is possible to be arrested on the spot if a police officer discovers an active warrant during a routine traffic stop, in many cases, individuals with warrants may not be apprehended right away. It’s important to remember that warrants do not expire, so it’s crucial to address them as soon as possible. 

Myth #2: You Can Only Check for Warrants by Visiting the Police Station in Person

Thanks to modern technology, you can easily check for warrants online through the California Department of Justice website. By entering your personal information, you can quickly see if there are any active warrants in your name. This simple step can save you a lot of time and stress in the long run.

Myth #3: Hiring a Lawyer Will Make You Look Guilty

On the contrary, seeking legal representation is your right and can actually help you navigate the legal system more effectively. A skilled attorney can help you understand your options, negotiate with the prosecution, and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.

Myth #4: You Must Turn Yourself In

Another myth about criminal warrants is that you must immediately turn yourself into law enforcement. However, there are certain situations where you may be able to resolve the issue without being arrested. For instance, if you have a warrant for an unpaid traffic ticket, you may be able to pay the fine and have the warrant lifted without being taken into custody. By knowing your rights and discussing your options with a lawyer, you can potentially avoid the stress and inconvenience of an arrest.

Myth #5: Criminal Warrants and Search Warrants Are the Same

One common misconception that many people have is that criminal warrants and search warrants are the same thing. However, this is not the case. Criminal warrants are issued by a judge in order to authorize the arrest of a specific individual who is suspected of committing a crime. These warrants are based on probable cause and are served by law enforcement officers.

On the other hand, search warrants are issued to allow law enforcement officers to search a specific location, such as a home or vehicle, for evidence related to a crime. This distinction is important to understand in order to ensure that individuals know their rights and legal protections when it comes to interactions with law enforcement.

Schedule a Consultation With a California Criminal Defense Lawyer

We encourage you to educate yourself about the truth behind criminal warrants in California. By being informed and knowledgeable about your rights and the legal process, you can better advocate for yourself and ensure that your rights are protected.

Contact us at our San Diego office (619) 814-5110 | Orange County office 949-681-7020  | Vista office 760-814-6025 | or schedule an appointment by filling out our online contact form.  As experienced criminal defense attorneys in California, we have seen firsthand the impact that misinformation can have on individuals facing criminal charges. We are here to give you legally sound advice about any charges you may face.