Do I have to turn myself in if I have a warrant?
Asked by: Monte Kohler | Last update: February 5, 2026Score: 4.6/5 (64 votes)
Yes, you generally have to deal with a warrant, but hiring a lawyer to arrange a voluntary surrender is usually the best approach, as it offers more dignity, potentially better bond terms, and avoids embarrassing public arrests. While you're not legally forced to turn yourself in immediately, the warrant remains active and can lead to arrest anytime, so resolving it is crucial, and your attorney can guide you on the specifics, such as arranging for bond or a new court date.
Is it better to turn yourself in if you have a warrant?
It's always best to turn yourself in. This limits risk to you and law enforcement, risk that is inherent during a more unknown situation, such as police serving an arrest warrant or traffic stop. It also looks better in court.
What happens if someone doesn't turn themselves in?
Failing to turn oneself in within the specified time frame can lead to several legal complications. A delay can result in additional charges, including bail jumping or resisting arrest, potentially worsening the individual's situation. These added charges can lead to more severe penalties.
What to expect when you turn yourself in for a warrant?
If you decide to turn yourself in, bring bail money. You will be arrested on the warrant and you will probably be required to post bail and given a court date. If you're lucky, they may just decide to give you a court date and release you ROR.
How long will I be in jail if I have a warrant?
In the event that you are unable to post the required bail amount following your arrest on a bench warrant, you may be detained until your next scheduled court appearance. This interim period can range from a few days to several weeks, depending on the court's calendar and the specific circumstances of your case.
If I Know I Have A Warrant, Should I Turn Myself In?
Do you get a better sentence if you turn yourself in?
Turning yourself in shows that you are willing to comply with the legal process, which can be favorable. However, this does not guarantee leniency. The outcome will depend on several factors, including the nature of the charges, your legal defense, and the judge's discretion.
How much is $20 worth in jail?
With $20 per month, the prisoner could at least purchase soap, quality toothpaste (and a quality toothbrush), and batteries for their radio. Even a single check for $15 could allow a prisoner to purchase a few comforts which would traditionally be outside of their reach.
Can you pay off a warrant without going to jail?
No, You Cannot Simply Pay Off a Warrant.
It's natural to hope there might be a way to resolve a warrant without turning yourself in. Perhaps you think you can just pay a fine, post a bond, or settle it over the phone. Unfortunately, it doesn't work that way.
Will a warrant eventually go away?
In California, a misdemeanor arrest warrant stays active until it is cleared, the suspect is arrested, or they die. Essentially, warrants do not expire. If the criminal statute of limitations (SOL) has expired, you may be able to have the case dismissed due to time limits.
Can you bond out before seeing a judge?
In California, you can bail someone out before they see a judge. This allows the defendant to return home while awaiting trial. Posting bail before arraignment means you can secure a release after booking. Different counties in California have bail schedules that list the standard amount for various offenses.
What to avoid if you have a warrant?
Things You Can't Do If You Have A Warrant
- You Can't Travel Freely. An active warrant severely limits your ability to travel freely, especially outside your immediate local area or state. ...
- You Can't Legally Drive. ...
- You Can't Enter Federal Property. ...
- You Can't Ignore the Warrant. ...
- You Can't Rely on Past Checks.
What is the 72 hour rule in jail?
Release from Jail After an Arrest in California
Note that, generally, the prosecution will only have 48 hours to hold you in jail before they must file charges or release you. However, if you are arrested on the weekend, the prosecution has up to 72 hours to file charges.
How to get a warrant dropped?
The simplest way to get rid of a bench warrant in California is to call the court that issued the bench warrant or the local police, ask them what the warrant is for, and see if they will schedule you a new court date and drop the warrant.
Can you pay to drop a warrant?
To clear a warrant, you usually must appear in the court that issued it. In some cases, you might be able to pay a fine if the warrant is for a smaller offense, like a traffic ticket. However, this is not always an option, especially for serious felonies.
Can you post bail if you have a warrant?
How to post bail on an Outstanding Warrant in Southern California. Certain warrants have bail amounts assigned to them. In this case bail can be posted at some courthouses without ever going through the booking process by the sheriff. Every County has their own policy on clearing warrants.
Is 1 day in jail equal to 2 days?
Sentences to county jail
In other words, for every two days of actual time in custody, four days will have been deemed served, or essentially half-time credit. (§ 4019(f).) The change is made effective for all crimes committed on or after October 1, 2011.
What happens if I don't exercise my warrants?
If a warrant is not exercised before its expiration date, it becomes worthless, and the holder loses the opportunity to purchase the underlying stock at the predetermined price.
What happens if you don't want to go to court?
Attending court can feel daunting, whether you are a defendant, a witness, or even called for jury service. However, attending court when required is a legal obligation. Missing your court date, regardless of the reason, can have serious consequences, including arrest, additional charges, and even a criminal record.