What Should You Do If You Have a Warrant for Your Arrest in Pennsylvania? (Hint: Don’t Panic!)

If you’ve discovered you have a warrant for your arrest in Pennsylvania, you’re probably feeling anxious and unsure of what to do next. The good news is, you can take steps right now to handle the situation responsibly—and minimize the impact on your life. As a criminal defense attorney, I’ve guided many clients through this process, and I’m here to tell you that with the right strategy, you can resolve a warrant effectively.

Understanding Warrants in Pennsylvania

A warrant is a legal document issued by a judge, authorizing law enforcement to take specific action, like arresting you or searching your property. In Pennsylvania, there are two primary types of warrants:

1. Arrest Warrants

These are issued when law enforcement has probable cause to believe you’ve committed a crime.

2. Bench Warrants

Bench warrants are issued by a judge, often for failing to appear in court, pay fines, or comply with court orders.

How to Find Out If You Have a Warrant in Pennsylvania

Discovering a warrant is the first step in resolving it. Here are a few ways to check:

1. Search Online Resources
   Many Pennsylvania counties offer online databases where you can search for active warrants.
2. Contact the Clerk of Courts
   A quick call or visit to the clerk’s office can confirm if a warrant exists.
3. Hire an Attorney
   An attorney can confidentially check for warrants, ensuring your privacy and providing guidance if one is found.

What to Do If You Have a Warrant for Your Arrest in Pennsylvania

1. Don’t Ignore the Problem

Ignoring a warrant will not make it disappear. Instead, it could lead to:

• Arrest at your home, workplace, or during a routine traffic stop.
• Additional charges for evasion or contempt of court.

2. Consult a Criminal Defense Attorney

As an attorney, I can:

• Investigate the details of your warrant.
• Communicate with law enforcement or the court to negotiate on your behalf.
• Plan a controlled and strategic approach to addressing the warrant.

Case Example:
One of my clients faced an arrest warrant for unpaid fines. By contacting me early, we resolved the issue through a payment plan, avoiding arrest entirely. This proactive step saved my client from unnecessary embarrassment.

3. Consider Voluntary Surrender

Voluntarily surrendering is often the best way to show the court you’re taking the matter seriously. Arriving with your attorney sends a strong message of responsibility and can lead to more favorable outcomes, like reduced bail.

What Happens After You Surrender or Are Arrested?

The Arraignment

After you surrender or are arrested, you’ll attend an arraignment where:

• The charges against you are formally presented.
• Bail may be set or denied.

Bail and Release

Courts consider factors like your criminal history, the nature of the charges, and flight risk when determining bail. An experienced attorney can argue for a reasonable bail or request release on your own recognizance.

Resolving the Case

From this point, your case progresses through the legal system. Your attorney will:

• Review the charges and evidence.
• Negotiate plea deals or prepare for trial.
• Ensure you comply with all court orders to avoid further complications.

What NOT to Do If You Have a Warrant

1. Don’t Run or Evade the Authorities
   Running from a warrant can lead to additional charges, higher bail, and harsher penalties.
2. Don’t Face the Warrant Alone
   Without legal representation, you risk missing opportunities to reduce charges, negotiate bail, or dismiss the warrant.
3. Don’t Postpone Action
   The sooner you address the warrant, the better your chances of minimizing its impact on your life.

FAQs About Warrants in Pennsylvania

1. How Can I Check for a Warrant Without Being Arrested?

Hire an attorney to perform a confidential search or use online court databases.

2. Can I Resolve a Warrant Without Going to Jail?

Yes, depending on the case. Voluntary surrender and legal negotiation often prevent jail time.

3. What Are the Penalties for Ignoring a Warrant?

Penalties vary but can include arrest, additional charges, and a tougher legal process.

4. Can a Warrant Affect My Job or Housing?

Yes, warrants can appear on background checks, potentially impacting employment or rental opportunities.

5. How Do Bench Warrants Differ from Arrest Warrants?

Bench warrants are typically for procedural issues like missing court, while arrest warrants are for alleged criminal activity.

A Lawyer’s Perspective: Why Acting Quickly Matters

I’ve seen clients who delayed addressing their warrants out of fear. In one case, a simple traffic ticket snowballed into a bench warrant, which led to an arrest at work. Had the client contacted me earlier, we could have cleared the warrant with a single court appearance.

Key Takeaway:

Acting promptly shows the court you’re responsible and willing to cooperate. This can make a significant difference in how your case is handled.

How Hiring an Attorney Can Help

As your attorney, I can:

• Ensure you understand the charges and process.
• Negotiate to reduce or eliminate bail.
• Work to dismiss or resolve the warrant quickly.

Dealing with a warrant is stressful, but you don’t have to face it alone. With the right legal guidance, you can protect your rights and move forward.

Closing Thoughts

If you have a warrant for your arrest in Pennsylvania, don’t panic and don’t wait. Ignoring it will only make things worse. The best thing you can do is take control by hiring an experienced attorney to guide you through the process.

Remember, the sooner you act, the better your chances of a favorable outcome. Contact my office today to start resolving your warrant and regain peace of mind.

Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Serving Beaver, Butler, Mercer, and Lawrence Counties

At Wenger Law, Attorney David Wenger provides skilled and dedicated criminal defense representation in Beaver, Butler, Mercer, and Lawrence counties. With a focus on protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome, David Wenger handles cases involving DUI, drug charges, assault, theft, and more. Whether you’re facing misdemeanor or felony charges, he’ll guide you through the legal process with expertise and compassion.

Don’t face your criminal charges alone—contact Wenger Law today for a free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your future.