It can be intimidating to learn there may be a warrant out for your arrest. In many cases, you will not be aware of this until the police appear at your door with an arrest warrant. This situation will feel ominous and may not offer any time for you to prepare a plan, mentally or tangibly, on the best way to approach the issue.
4 Steps to Take is There is a Warrant Out for Your Arrest
Our attorneys are experienced in criminal law and understand how to navigate such a situation. The following are four steps we recommend taking if you believe there is a warrant for your arrest.
#1 Contact an Attorney
The most important action to take in the warrant process is to contact a criminal defense attorney. An experienced attorney will be able to guide you through the entirety of the process, ensuring that you do not make difficult decisions alone. Your attorney will aid you in determining the reason for the warrant, the validity of the warrant, and be present with you throughout the extent of arrest, police questioning, and court hearings.
Furthermore, an attorney can help you in posting bond, which will allow you to not remain incarcerated and remain at liberty while you defend the charge laid against you. An experienced lawyer can create a solid defense, helping you obtain the best possible outcome in your case, given your particular circumstances.
#2 Contact a Bail Bondsperson
Once you have obtained an attorney, they can assist you in connecting with a bail bondsperson. Doing this prior to the arrest will assist you in shortening the amount of time spent in jail. By beginning the process to post bail as soon as possible, and through completing paperwork in a timely fashion, you will benefit. This will allow you to leave jail faster than if you had not contacted a bondsperson prior to the arrest. Keep in mind that the bail bondsperson is in business, and you will sign an agreement to pay him/her a certain amount (usually a percentage of the bond amount) in order to allow the bondsperson to post the bond with the jail and facilitate your prompt release.
#3 Turn Yourself In
After consulting with your attorney, it is typically recommended that you “voluntarily surrender” to the police and cooperate throughout the process. Doing so will start the process as soon as possible, and enable you to get information from the State, and defend the charge(s). . Your lawyer will advise you on when and how to turn yourself in and may even be able to recommend an ideal time of day to turn yourself in, which will further expedite the process.
#4 Refrain from Making Statements to the Police
Finally, do not make any statements to law enforcement without your attorney present. Under the Sixth Amendment, you have the right to not answer questions without your attorney present so that you do not further incriminate yourself. While in jail, be cautious to avoid making statements to cell mates, jail officers, or even over the phone, as phone calls can be recorded and could be used against you in Court.
We are Here to Help You Every Step of the Way
At Apfelbaum Law, our attorneys are experienced in all aspects of criminal law. We understand how to navigate the confusing and intimidating process and are able to guide you through the necessary steps to protect yourself. If you have reason to believe a warrant is out for your arrest, contact us at 772-236-4009 or contactus@alawfl.com to let us know how we can assist you during this time.
