What is an Arrest Warrant?

An arrest warrant is a type of court order that is generally issued by the state courts.  When an arrest warrant is issued in a person's name, law enforcement agents have the right to detain and arrest the individual listed on the warrant.  Typically, warrants are issued after people fail to appear in court or commit crimes.

While warrants are generally issued by the courts, these documents may also be issued by one of the chambers of the U.S. Congress, other legislatures or political entities.  In order for an arrest warrant to be issued in the U.S., it must be supported by an affidavit that sufficiently shows probable cause.  This means law enforcement agents must prove a crime has been committed and that there is sufficient reason to believe the person listed on an arrest warrant has committed the crime.

If an arrest warrant has been issued in your name, it is imperative that you confront the matter by retaining representation from a skilled criminal defense lawyer immediately.