What is a Warrant? An arrest warrant is an official document signed by a judge or a magistrate on behalf of the state that authorizes the apprehension of a suspected criminal. There are several varieties of arrest warrants that depend on the nature and context of the crime committed by the accused.
There are 4 basic types of warrants that will be discussed: Bench warrants, Felony warrants, Misdemeanor warrants and outstanding warrants. Warrants from various municipalities can be searched by clicking on a city or county below.
- Bench warrant
A bench warrant is a type of arrest warrant given to an individual accused of committing a crime against the court. The term “bench” refers to that of the judge. Most commonly used for penalizing individuals for not appearing for their scheduled court trials, a bench warrant aims to secure cooperation from all parties involved in the crime. If a defendant is able to provide an acceptable, valid reason as to why he or she has been absent for the trial, the court will allow the defendant be excused in turn for paying for charges. Otherwise, the defendant will be punished further and additional penalties to his or her case will be implemented.
- Felony warrant
A felony warrant is a type of arrest warrant given to an individual accused of committing a crime revolving on acts of felony. Acts of felony include more serious and violent crimes such as rape and murder as well as relatively less violent crimes of robbery and auto theft.
- Misdemeanor warrant
A misdemeanor warrant is a type of arrest warrant given to an individual accused of committing relatively minor crimes. Minor crimes include that of petty theft, traffic violations and disorderly conduct.
- Outstanding warrant
An outstanding warrant is a type of arrest warrant given to an individual accused of committing a crime but is still not delivered to the accused. In order to incur outstanding warrants, the defendant may intentionally evade arrest warrants to avoid detainment or unintentionally be unaware of implemented arrest warrants set for him or her.