The concept of even potentially getting arrested can be terrifying. One can go through so much anxiety wondering when it will happen, will it be in front of family? Could it happen at work? What even are the charges or is there even a warrant out at all? If these types of intrusive thoughts have been overtaking your mind then it’s important to know that there are actions you can take to not only confirm if there is a warrant but to potentially avoid going to jail in the event that there is one. Here are the main things that you should know!
Local bail bond agencies have the answers you need
If you are at all concerned about an outstanding warrant for your arrest, the very first thing you should do is call a local bail bond agency that is preferably in the country where you think you may have a warrant. This is because these agencies have access to databases that can confirm right then and there if there is actually a warrant and what the charges are for. In addition to this, a bail bondsman will also be able to see if there is a set bond already attached to this outstanding warrant. If there is, the bail bondsman may be able to help you get what is known as a walk-through bond. This type of bond is different from the most common types of bonds such as cash or surety because it allows the defendant to pay a predetermined amount ahead of any actual arrest. This means that while you would avoid any actual jail time before a bond hearing, you would still be responsible for attending any and all hearings related to the case to avoid a bench warrant.
Options if a walk-through bond is not available
In some circumstances, unfortunately, a walk-through bond will not be an option and the bail bondsman will let you know that. Common reasons for this are that there is a previous history of not showing up to court, the warrant stems from an investigation or even a warrant that was triggered from something like violating a restraining order. If there is a situation where a walk-through bond is not available, it means that an arrest will have to be made but there are still things you can do. The best option is to get in touch with a lawyer who may be able to negotiate terms for a surrender. While this won’t keep you out of jail, it will give you control to get any affairs in order and avoid the anxiety that can come with a surprise arrest. The other main benefit to surrendering is it just looks more responsible in the eyes of the court. By taking matters into your own hands, the judge will view the action is you taking responsibility and wanting to do the right thing before waiting to be caught. This can be beneficial because the judge may in turn opt for a lesser bond cost or even potentially offer a lesser sentence during the actual hearings afterward.
To sum up, if you have even the smallest worry that there may be a warrant out, it is best to get in touch with a bail bondsman right away. This way you can either save yourself a lot of stress when it turns out to be untrue or you are given the power to choose your next steps and move forward if there is a confirmed warrant out. If you are in the Mobile area and have any questions or need assistance with a walk-through bond, please don’t hesitate to give us a call and we would be happy to help!
