What Should You Do About a Warrant in Montgomery County? 

Facing a warrant can be a daunting experience. Whether it’s for a minor offense or something more serious, understanding what a warrant entails and knowing the appropriate steps to take is crucial. The VanNoy Firm is here to help you understand various types of warrants in Ohio and how to handle them effectively. Call for a consultation where we can provide individualized legal guidance and help you navigate this challenging situation.

Understanding Warrants in Ohio

A warrant is a legal document issued by a judge or magistrate that authorizes law enforcement to perform an action, such as making an arrest, conducting a search or seizing property. Warrants are essential tools in the criminal justice system to ensure that actions taken by law enforcement are supported by probable cause. In Ohio, there are several types of warrants one might encounter:

1. Arrest Warrants: Issued when law enforcement has probable cause to believe that an individual has committed a crime.
2. Bench Warrants: Issued by a judge when someone fails to appear in court or violates a court order.
3. Search Warrants: Authorize law enforcement to search a specific location for evidence related to a crime.

Why It’s Crucial to Handle Warrants Effectively

Ignoring a warrant won’t make it go away; in fact, it can lead to more severe consequences, including additional charges, higher fines and longer jail time. Addressing a warrant promptly is vital to safeguard your rights. Knowing how to respond can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

Steps to Take If You Have a Warrant in Ohio

Verify the Existence of the Warrant

The first step in addressing a warrant is to confirm its existence. You can do this by:

• Contacting your local courthouse: Court clerks can perform an outstanding warrant search using your name and date of birth.
• Checking online databases: Some cities have online resources where you can check for warrants.
• Consulting with your attorney: An experienced criminal defense lawyer can help verify the warrant and advise on the next steps.

Understanding the Type of Warrant

Knowing the type of warrant you’re dealing with will determine the course of action:

Handling Arrest Warrants

An arrest warrant means that law enforcement has the authority to take you into custody. Here’s what you should do:

• Contact an Attorney Immediately: Before taking any action, consult with a skilled criminal defense lawyer. We can guide you through the process, protect your rights and potentially arrange for a bond.
• Prepare for Surrender: Your attorney can help you plan your surrender to minimize the time spent in lockup and arrange for a smooth process.

Dealing with Bench Warrants

Bench warrants are issued for failing to appear in court or non-compliance with court orders. Here’s how to address them:

• Reschedule Your Court Appearance: Contact the court to explain your absence and request a new date. Your attorney can assist in this process.
• Rectify Court Order Violations: If the warrant is due to a violation of court orders, work with your attorney to resolve the issue promptly.

Responding to Search Warrants

If law enforcement presents a search warrant, you must comply. However, there are still steps you can take:

• Cooperate but Do Not Consent to Additional Searches: Comply with the warrant’s specific directives but do not consent to searches beyond its scope.
• Consult Your Attorney: Contact your lawyer immediately to review the search warrant’s validity and ensure your rights are protected.

Contact Us

Facing a warrant in Ohio is a serious matter that demands immediate attention and professional legal assistance. At The VanNoy Firm, we are here to help you navigate this challenging time with the dedication you deserve. If you or someone you know has a warrant, don’t wait. Contact us today to ensure your rights are protected and to begin formulating a robust defense strategy.