If you have an active warrant for your arrest in California, whether for a missed court appearance, unpaid fines, or suspicion of committing a crime, it's natural to feel anxious and uncertain about what to do next.
Ignoring a warrant, a choice many in your situation are tempted to make, can lead to your arrest at an inconvenient time, harsher consequences in court, and increased difficulty in defending yourself later on. It's a risky choice that's best avoided.
On the other hand, voluntarily surrendering to authorities doesn't just demonstrate responsibility; it also strengthens your ability to protect your rights and potentially minimize penalties.
If you know that there is a warrant out for your arrest because you didn't show up for court or police have contacted you, you might be wondering how to turn yourself in. If you ever find yourself in this situation, the Los Angeles criminal defense lawyers at Eisner Gorin LLP want you to be prepared.
If you have an active warrant and would like to turn yourself in, you can contact us directly. We can also provide legal advice about your case and help negotiate your surrender.
Suppose you are wondering about the benefits of turning yourself in. In that case, you are not alone. Many people are concerned about what happens when they decide to turn themselves in for a bench warrant.
Turning yourself in has significant benefits, including avoiding the embarrassment or uncertainty of a sudden police arrest. It's a proactive step that can help you take control of the situation. Another benefit is that you can resolve the active arrest warrant.
You can also increase the odds of getting bail by showing that you want to handle business and are not a flight risk. The prosecution can consider your cooperation when it offers a plea bargain. If you find out there's a warrant out for you, let's look at some potential advantages of turning yourself in.
Improved Chances of Lower Bail
Arrest warrants remain active until the police make the arrest, the court quashes the warrant, or the defendant turns themselves in. Turning yourself in is often the best way to resolve your case.
When you turn yourself in voluntarily, the court may view your actions as a reflection of good faith and cooperation. Compared to someone who has actively evaded law enforcement, you are signaling your willingness to address the situation responsibly.
This cooperative approach can positively influence the court's decision on bail. Lower bail means less financial hardship for you or your loved ones and a greater likelihood of securing a faster release from custody.
For individuals suspected of non-violent offenses, voluntary surrender often leads to leniency in bail considerations. On the other hand, if law enforcement has to locate and arrest you, the court may view this as an indication that you are a flight risk, resulting in higher bail or even denial of bail altogether.
Better Terms in Plea Deals
Plea agreements are common in California's criminal justice system. By voluntarily turning yourself in, you create a first impression of responsibility and accountability. Prosecutors are often more receptive to negotiating favorable plea deal terms with individuals who demonstrate cooperation from the outset.
For example, if you are facing charges that could involve jail time, showing that you are actively engaged with the legal process can sometimes lead to reduced sentencing, alternative penalties such as probation, or participation in diversion programs.
Prosecutors are human, and they tend to work more constructively with defendants who demonstrate respect for the legal process rather than avoidance or defiance. Simply put, turning yourself in can help with plea negotiations and with the judge in mitigation if you are convicted. It shows that you took responsibility for your actions.
Turning yourself in shows that you are willing to comply with the legal process, which can be favorable. However, this does not guarantee leniency. The outcome will depend on several factors, including the nature of the charges, your legal defense, and the judge's discretion.
Reduced Risk of Embarrassing Arrest
Arrest warrants allow law enforcement officers to detain you at any time or place, including your home, your workplace, or even during a routine traffic stop.
This can cause unnecessary embarrassment, stress, and disruption to your personal and professional life. When you voluntarily surrender, you are in control of the timing and circumstances.
You can plan for your surrender to take place at a time that minimizes inconvenience. Additionally, proactively working with an attorney beforehand often allows them to coordinate with authorities to reduce unnecessary delays and help the process move as smoothly as possible.
Misdemeanor Warrant
Suppose you're facing an arrest warrant for a misdemeanor offense and the state has already filed criminal charges against you. In that case, you can typically turn yourself in by contacting the court and scheduling an arraignment. This process allows you to take control of the situation and avoid a sudden arrest.
You should consult a criminal defense attorney for help. Notably, upon turning yourself in, you will normally be released on your own recognizance, meaning you will not have to face jail time while waiting for a future court date.
Misdemeanor warrants are court documents that authorize police officers to arrest the person named in the warrant. A judge issues a misdemeanor warrant based on probable cause that the person named in the warrant committed a misdemeanor offense.
Some common misdemeanor offenses include shoplifting, traffic violations, driving under the influence (DUI), and domestic violence crimes.
Importance of Consulting with a California Criminal Defense Attorney
While turning yourself in offers significant benefits, it's essential to take this step carefully and strategically. Before surrendering, you should consult with an experienced California criminal defense attorney.
A knowledgeable attorney will provide guidance to ensure you're fully prepared and informed about the process ahead, making you feel guided and supported. Here are some key ways a criminal defense attorney can assist you:
- Understanding the Charges and Risks: Once your attorney reviews the warrant, they can explain the charges against you, what potential penalties you may face, and how the case might proceed. This clarity enables you to make informed decisions and avoid surprises.
- Coordinating a Surrender Plan: Your attorney can help plan your surrender to minimize complications. They may coordinate with law enforcement or court officers to ensure you're able to surrender in a way that reduces stress and embarrassment. This coordination provides reassurance and may also lead to negotiation for you to be released on your own recognizance, meaning you would not need to post bail.
- Developing a Strong Defense Strategy: From the moment you turn yourself in, your attorney will work to protect your rights and advocate on your behalf. They will investigate the circumstances of your case, assess weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and work to build a strong defense. If a plea deal or reduced charges are possible, they will actively negotiate for the best outcome.
If you have a warrant in California, the situation won't be resolved by avoiding it. Voluntarily turning yourself in is not only the responsible choice but is often the smarter one. It can improve the perception of your character, lead to better outcomes in court, and give you greater control of the process.
Having the right legal representation will give you the support and knowledge you need to protect your rights and achieve the best outcome in your case. For more information, contact our criminal defense law firm, Eisner Gorin LLP.
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