Bench Warrant Issued — Now What?
Missing a court date can be stressful and intimidating — especially if you find out that a bench warrant has been issued for your arrest. Whether it was an honest mistake, a misunderstanding, or a missed notice, knowing what to do next can make all the difference in resolving the situation safely and favorably.
What Is a Bench Warrant?
A bench warrant is an order issued by a judge (from the “bench”) authorizing law enforcement to arrest you. Bench warrants are typically issued when a person:
- Fails to appear in court
- Violates a condition of their release
- Fails to pay court-ordered fines or complete mandated programs
In Washington State, bench warrants can apply to both criminal and certain civil matters, such as family law cases or probation violations.
What Happens After a Bench Warrant Is Issued?
Once a bench warrant is issued, you could be arrested at any time — during a traffic stop, at your home, or even at work. In some cases, your name is entered into a statewide database, and police are actively looking for you.
Depending on the type of case and the reason for the warrant, you may also face additional charges, higher bail, or even revocation of prior release conditions.
Can I Just Wait It Out?
No — bench warrants do not expire. Ignoring it will only make things worse. The longer it remains active, the more likely it is to lead to an arrest at an inconvenient (and possibly public) time. Worse, it may negatively affect how the court views you, especially if you’re later seeking leniency.
What Should I Do If I Have a Warrant?
If you know or suspect that there’s a bench warrant for your arrest, your best move is to address it immediately with the help of an attorney. An experienced lawyer can:
- Confirm whether a warrant exists and what it’s for
- File a motion to quash or recall the warrant
- Arrange for you to appear voluntarily before the court, avoiding the risk of arrest
- Present mitigating factors on your behalf to reduce penalties
Courts tend to look more favorably on people who proactively resolve the issue rather than waiting to be arrested.
Can I Be Arrested at Court When I Go In?
Possibly — but judges often prefer voluntary appearances and are less likely to order custody if your attorney sets the hearing and you appear as agreed. Showing up voluntarily with legal representation signals to the court that you take the matter seriously.
Don’t Let a Warrant Spiral into a Bigger Problem
If you have an active bench warrant in Washington, don’t wait to be arrested. The Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer can help you take control of the situation, get back on the court’s calendar, and protect your record. We understand the stress these situations cause and can guide you through the process step-by-step.
Call us today for a confidential consultation and let’s clear this up — the right way.