Learning that there’s a warrant out for your arrest is alarming. You’re probably unfamiliar with the idea outside of movies and TV, and you may not know how to deal with the situation. Because the police know exactly what they’re doing and you don’t, it’s easy to make a mistake that will hurt your case and make it more difficult to defend you. Whether you’re dealing with an arrest warrant in San Antonio or anywhere else, your first step should be to contact an experienced defense attorney.
What’s in an Arrest Warrant?
An arrest warrant in San Antonio must identify the person the warrant applies to and the crime that person is being accused of. If the police know the person’s name, that needs to be included. If law enforcement doesn’t have a name, they need to provide a description that identifies the person instead. The warrant also needs to state the crime the person is being charged with and be signed by a judge.
Types of Warrants in San Antonio and Across Texas?
There are several types of warrants that a court may issue in different situations. If you’re the subject of any of these warrants, it’s a good idea to seek advice from a lawyer as soon as possible.
Arrest Warrants
A judge issues an arrest warrant when they have determined that there is probable cause to arrest someone for a specific offense.
Search warrants
A search warrant also requires that the police establish probable cause. It allows police to search someone’s home, vehicle, or workplace for evidence related to a crime. The warrant needs to define the place being searched and, in some cases, what the police are searching for.
Bench Warrants
A bench warrant is issued when someone is in contempt of court, and it allows police to bring the person to court to resolve the situation. A person could be in contempt of court for failing to attend a scheduled hearing, failing to follow a court order or other similar actions.
Blue Warrants
A blue warrant is issued when someone has violated their parole terms. In Texas, anyone released after serving a prison sentence remains on court-supervised parole for a set period of time. Parole conditions include attending regular meetings with a parole officer and getting a job. Judges can also issue a blue warrant if a parolee commits another crime.
How Do Texas Arrest Warrants Work?
An arrest warrant allows police to take you into custody for the crime listed on the warrant. When you’re arrested, the police officer needs to inform you that the arrest is because of a warrant. However, the officer does not need to have the warrant with them.
What Happens During an Arrest Warrant?
As with any other arrest, police will take you to jail, search you and seize any evidence they find, then photograph and fingerprint you. Before questioning, the police will need to inform you that you have the right to remain silent and the right to contact an attorney.
How Long Do Arrest Warrants Last in Texas?
Arrest warrants don’t expire, so a warrant will remain valid until the person named in the warrant is arrested. If a warrant is issued for your arrest, ignoring it until it goes away isn’t a solution. If you find out about a warrant for your arrest, talk to an attorney to discuss the situation and get professional advice on how to proceed.
What Should I Do if I’m Arrested?
There are several steps you can take if you’re arrested to increase the chances of a good outcome. First, never resist arrest. By attempting to use force, you could be charged with additional crimes, or you could be injured yourself. If you haven’t committed the crime or you believe that the arrest is illegal, you’ll be able to resolve the situation in court.
Once you’re taken into custody, invoke your right to remain silent and to talk to an attorney. It’s important to remember that police have special training to get you to reveal information that could hurt your case. Many people want to explain themselves or clear up a misunderstanding after an arrest. This is natural. However, this can make it more difficult to defend your case in court later on. You won’t be able to fix the situation on your own, and trying to do so will only lead to additional problems. It’s also essential to remember that this applies to any conversations you have while you’re in jail. Conversations with family or friends are likely to be monitored or recorded. Other inmates may share information you discuss in hopes of getting a better deal for themselves. The only information you should give the police is basic information like your name, address, and birth date.
The only private conversations you’ll have in jail are those with your attorney. Otherwise, you should always assume that you’re being recorded and watch what you say accordingly. Once the police have finished their booking and processing, you’ll be allowed to make a phone call. You may not be allowed to use your cell phone, so it’s a good idea to memorize a number for a trusted friend or family member if possible. If you can’t afford an attorney, you’ll be appointed a public defender. Otherwise, you’ll want to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney.
When you meet with your attorney, they’ll be able to give you an idea of what to expect going forward. They’ll also help you decide what, if anything, you should tell the police about your case.
To Summarize
If you’re arrested in Texas, you need to cooperate with police while invoking your right to remain silent. Your next step should be hiring an experienced defense attorney to advise you. Your attorney will be able to help you avoid incriminating yourself while presenting the best defense possible.
