Few things can strike more fear into a person’s heart than worrying about an outstanding warrant. The thought that at any time you could be discovered and placed under arrest is enough to cause sleepless nights and to fill your days with dread. In the state of South Carolina, warrants may be issued for even small infractions and, in some situations, you may not even be aware that one has been issued. If you have or suspect you have an outstanding criminal warrant, contact our criminal defense attorney for advice on how to deal with the situation. Dealing proactively with a warrant can be a lot less painful than putting your life on hold while waiting for law enforcement to eventually catch up with you.
Types of Warrants
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In South Carolina, the following are two basic types of warrants that are issued by judges in criminal court proceedings:
- Arrest Warrants : Under the South Carolina Code of Laws regarding criminal procedures , a person can be arrested outright if law enforcement is present and has reasons to be believe the person in question has committed a criminal act, or a judge may issue a warrant for the arrest of that person based upon the evidence presented. Depending on the circumstances, the seriousness of the charges, and the threat to the public health, officers may take steps to go to a person’s residence, workplace, or other suspected place the person is known to frequent in order to make an arrest. In some cases, the warrant may be executed immediately, while in others it could take days, weeks, or even months for law enforcement to appear.
- Bench Warrants :Under South Carolina Criminal Rules , bench warrants are issued by the presiding judge in a case when a person fails to comply with an established court order. These cases often involve bond hearings, where a person is placed under arrest, a bond hearing has been held with bail set and the accused being required to appear for future hearings and roll call appearances. Failure to appear for these court dates will result in a bench warrant being issued. Bench warrants may also be issued if you have been ticketed and fail to appear on your scheduled date, or if a person has been placed on probation and fails to adhere to the conditions established by the court. Apprehension for bench warrants most often occurs during routine traffic stops.
Have an Outstanding Warrant? Contact Our Criminal Defense Attorney Today
While it may seem to be in your best interest to delay taking any action on a warrant, you are only putting off the inevitable. Arrest and bench warrants do not go away, and failing to deal with them can end up resulting in serious consequences, including jail time. If you or a loved one has outstanding warrants or suspect a warrant has been issued, contact our experienced South Carolina criminal defense attorney today. Greenville attorney Lauren M. Taylor provides the aggressive legal representation needed to defend you against any charges, while advising you on the best course of action depending on your particular circumstances. When it comes to your freedom, you need an attorney who will fight for your rights. Serving Greenville and the surrounding areas, call or contact Lauren Taylor Law online today for a free and confidential case consultation.
South Carolina divorce attorney Lauren Taylor practices family law in Charleston and Greenville. She graduated from the Charlotte School of Law, and has been practicing for more than ten years.
Since the firm’s inception in 2012, Mrs. Taylor has helped hundreds of people navigate the uncertainties surrounding the family and criminal court process.
She has cultivated a team that ensures each case has a strategy crafted specifically to the clients needs and desires.
Her commitment to top notch service has led her to open two additional offices in the low country where she now resides with her husband Michael and her golden retriever, Buster.