will police come get you for a felony warrant

3 min read 14-12-2024

will police come get you for a felony warrant

Meta Description: Facing a felony warrant? Understand the process, your rights, and what to expect if the police come looking for you. Learn about surrender options, potential consequences, and how to seek legal counsel. Don't wait – get informed now!

A felony warrant is a serious legal matter. It means a court has issued an order for your arrest for a crime carrying significant penalties. The question many people facing this situation ask is: will the police come get me? The short answer is: potentially, yes. But the situation is more nuanced than that. This article will break down the process and explain what you should do if you're facing a felony warrant.

Understanding Felony Warrants

A felony warrant signifies that law enforcement believes you have committed a serious crime. These crimes typically involve lengthy prison sentences and significant fines. Examples include:

Assault
Burglary
Drug trafficking
Fraud
Grand theft

The issuance of a warrant indicates the court believes there's enough evidence to justify your arrest and prosecution. This doesn't automatically mean an immediate arrest, however.

Will the Police Come to Your Home?

The likelihood of police coming to your home depends on several factors:

Severity of the crime: More serious felonies will likely result in a more aggressive pursuit.
Your criminal history: Repeat offenders are often prioritized for arrest.
Police resources: Local police departments have limited resources and prioritize cases based on urgency and threat level.
Your cooperation: If you're actively evading law enforcement, they are more likely to pursue you actively.

While the police could come to your home, it's not guaranteed. They might attempt to locate you through other means first, such as contacting your known associates or places of employment.

What Happens if the Police Find You?

If the police find you with a felony warrant, you will be arrested. Your rights will be read to you (Miranda rights), and you'll be taken into custody. This typically involves:

Booking: Fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal information.
Detention: Holding you in jail until your arraignment (initial court appearance).
Bail: A judge might set bail, allowing you to be released pending trial if you pay a specific amount. However, bail is not guaranteed, especially for serious felonies.

What Should You Do if You Have a Felony Warrant?

Ignoring a felony warrant is not advisable. It will likely make the situation worse. Here's what you should do:

Consult with an attorney immediately. This is crucial. A lawyer can advise you on your rights and the best course of action. They can also help negotiate with the authorities.
Do not attempt to flee. Evading arrest will only worsen your situation and could lead to additional charges.
Consider surrendering yourself. This might seem daunting, but it often demonstrates cooperation, which could be beneficial during sentencing. Your attorney can help arrange a safe and controlled surrender.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long does it take for the police to find someone with a felony warrant?

A: This varies greatly depending on the factors mentioned above. It could be days, weeks, or even longer.

Q: Can I travel with a felony warrant?

A: No, you should not travel. You risk arrest at any time, and crossing state lines could lead to additional charges.

Q: What are the consequences of ignoring a felony warrant?

A: Ignoring a warrant can lead to more severe penalties upon arrest, including longer sentences and higher bail amounts. It also makes you seem uncooperative in the eyes of the court.

Q: Can I check if I have a warrant?

A: You can try contacting the court clerk's office in the jurisdiction where you believe the warrant might exist. You may also consider consulting an attorney who can discreetly investigate.

Conclusion

Facing a felony warrant is a serious situation requiring immediate legal attention. While the police may or may not come looking for you immediately, ignoring the warrant is never the answer. Seek legal counsel immediately, understand your rights, and consider surrendering to avoid further complications. Remember, proactive action is key in navigating this challenging legal situation. Do not delay; seek help now.