Dealing With Bench Warrants
A judge issues a bench warrant when a person charged in a criminal case fails to appear for court. If you find that you are the subject of an active bench warrant, you need to contact an attorney immediately. Most bench warrant arrests happen through something as innocent as a traffic stop for a speeding ticket or during a routine roadblock. The moment you become aware of a bench warrant should be the moment you contact Cohen & Hirsch.
Bench warrants are not a minor criminal matter. For example, failing to appear on an outstanding warrant for a traffic violation can result in the suspension of your driver’s license. The decision of a judge can affect your ability to work and create disruptions in your personal life. More serious consequences include significant fines, being required to post a high bond, attorney costs and jail time.
How Bench Warrants Work
Bench warrants can be issued for a variety of reasons that include:
- Failure to appear for a court appearance
- Unpaid fines, including parking or traffic tickets
- Failing to comply with a subpoena for your testimony at a hearing or trial
- Delays in or refusals to pay child support or alimony
For DeKalb County residents, and those throughout the state and the country, we can appear on their behalf. Our legal team comprises knowledgeable and skilled attorneys with experience on both the prosecution and the defense side. Jill Polster is a former prosecutor, while Andy Cohen is a career defense lawyer. They understand the consequences you may face as you try to get a bench warrant recalled, lifted or set aside. Our attorneys will not stop working for you until the matter is corrected, you are allowed to post a bond or you are released from jail.
Minimizing consequences starts with an attorney at our firm appearing before a judge on your behalf to inform them of your intention to resolve the problem that led to the warrant. In some cases, we are able to negotiate with prosecutors to have their consent on setting aside your bench warrant and resetting the matter for resolution.
Contact Cohen & Hirsch Criminal Defense
Schedule your free initial consultation with an attorney at Cohen & Hirsch by contacting our law office at 404-919-7096.