Discovering there is a warrant out for your arrest in Oklahoma City can be anxiety-inducing, and you may feel like it’s only a matter of time before you’re in handcuffs. As such, understanding your legal options can help you take control of the situation. The following blog explores what your legal options are in the event you have a warrant out for your arrest and why connecting with an OKC criminal defense lawyer is critical to protecting yourself.

Types of Arrest Warrants Issued in Oklahoma

Many are surprised to learn that different types of warrants can lead to an arrest in Oklahoma. This is because the warrants may be issued for different purposes, and as such, the consequences of each type of arrest warrant may vary.

Arrest Warrants vs. Bench Warrants

  • Arrest Warrants
    • Are issued after a judge determines probable cause
    • Common in both misdemeanor and felony cases
    • Often includes a preset bond amount
  • Bench Warrants
    • Are issued after failing to appear in court or violating court orders
    • Common for probation breaches, traffic violations, or prior criminal cases
    • Typically does not include a bond amount

It is imperative to keep in mind that just because there is a warrant out for your arrest, does not mean you are automatically guilty. As a criminal defendant in Oklahoma, certain rights are guaranteed, including the right to a fair trial to determine guilt.

What Information is Included in an OKC Arrest Warrant?

If there is an arrest warrant out for you, understanding the information that must be contained in these documents is critical to protecting your rights as a criminal defendant. Arrest warrants, by law, contain important information and details that limit how and when law enforcement can proceed.

Key Details Included in a Warrant

  • Full legal name of the accused party
  • A description of the alleged offense
  • The date on which the warrant was issued
  • The signature of the judge who authorized the warrant
  • Conditions or limitations of the arrest
  • A bond amount (depending on the type)

How Do People Learn That There Is a Warrant?

It’s necessary to note that many people are not notified by law enforcement when a warrant is issued for their arrest. In fact, most people may only learn about the warrant when they are arrested by the police.

Common Ways Warrants Are Discovered in Oklahoma City

  • By the police during a traffic stop
  • Receiving notification from a bail bondsman
  • During an employer-run background check
  • By searching public records
  • Being contacted by law enforcement at home or work

What Should I Do If There’s a Warrant Issued For Me?

If you discover there is a warrant out for your arrest in Oklahoma, understanding how to proceed is crucial to protecting yourself and preventing any additional legal troubles. The first steps you take are some of the most important in this process, which is why it’s generally in your best interest to connect with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as you learn about the warrant.

First Steps to Protect Your Rights

  • Contact a criminal defense lawyer before speaking to the police
  • Do not attempt to flee or evade police
  • Avoid talking about the matter with anyone other than your attorney
  • Adhere to your lawyer’s legal advice before turning yourself in

Should You Turn Yourself In for a Warrant in Oklahoma City?

In general, turning yourself in when there is a warrant out for your arrest is the most recommended option. However, before doing so, it’s necessary to prepare and determine when to do so, as specific procedures may vary in Oklahoma based on jurisdiction. Additionally, turning yourself in is not an admission of guilt, but rather a procedural step to show your cooperation with law enforcement.

Benefits of a Coordinated Surrender

Working with your attorney, who can negotiate a time to turn yourself in with law enforcement, is ideal, as it:

  • Reduces the risk of a public arrest
  • Allows your attorney to negotiate the bond amount and conditions in advance
  • Prevents additional charges for allegations of evasion
  • Allows you to show compliance without admissions of guilt

Will You Go to Jail if There Is an Active Arrest Warrant?

Whether or not you will be booked into jail is dependent on the type of warrant, your bond status, and the severity of the charges against you.

Factors That Can Impact Jail Time

  • Whether or not a bond is listed on the warrant
  • The nature of the alleged offense
  • Prior criminal history
  • The severity of the offense (misdemeanor or felony)
  • Court availability at the time of surrender (which is why coordination is critical)

It’s important to understand that a warrant does not mean you will automatically spend time in jail, though it is a possibility.

How To Check for a Warrant in Oklahoma

In many instances, public records and online databases in Oklahoma can allow you to determine whether or not a warrant exists. The exact location of these databases will vary based on where you are located in Oklahoma.

Where Warrants May Be Listed

Contact an Experienced OKC Criminal Defense Attorney

When you are accused of committing a serious crime, ensuring you have competent legal representation on your side is critical. At the Jones Law Firm, our dedicated legal team will do everything in our power to guide you through these challenging times. If there is a warrant out for your arrest, do not hesitate to contact us to speak with a member of our team for more information.