Will I go to jail if I turn myself in for a bench warrant?

Asked by: Jake Denesik I  |  Last update: June 5, 2025
Score: 4.9/5 (57 votes)

If you turn yourself in for a bench warrant, it is possible that you go to jail until you can appear before a judge for a bench warrant hearing.

What happens when you turn yourself in for a bench 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.

Is it better to run or turn yourself in?

The choice to turn yourself in is up to you, but voluntarily doing so improves the likelihood of a more positive outcome for yourself at a bail hearing and at trial.

Is turning yourself in an admission of guilt?

Defendants must only turn themselves in when an active warrant is out for their arrest. Turning yourself in does not mean that you are confessing to a crime or entering a guilty plea; it only means that you are not obstructing justice.

How serious is a bench warrant in CA?

If you have a bench warrant, you will be arrested. In California, a bench warrant is considered contempt of court, and it can carry serious consequences. You may face additional fines or jail time. It is smart to plan to turn yourself in.

If I Know I Have A Warrant, Should I Turn Myself In?

22 related questions found

How long do you stay in jail for a bench warrant in California?

How long do you stay in jail for bench warrant? The duration of jail time for a bench warrant varies based on factors such as the nature of the underlying offense and local laws. You may be held until a hearing or until bail is posted, potentially lasting from a few hours to several days.

How to clear a bench warrant without going to jail California?

If your bench warrant was issued due to unpaid fines or fees, your lawyer can work with the court to establish a payment plan or negotiate a reduced amount. By demonstrating a willingness to pay, you may be able to clear the warrant without being arrested.

Do you get a shorter sentence if you turn yourself in?

While self-reporting a crime and pleading guilty can certainly help to reduce the severity of the penalties you could face, this is not to say that it will exonerate you entirely.

What is the best time to turn yourself in?

Call the Local Sheriff's Office

It is often best to turn yourself in on a weekday other than Monday or Friday and as early in the day as possible.

Does cooperating with police help?

Cooperating with law enforcement is the best way to protect yourself legally. It is also the best way to protect yourself physically. You could be badly hurt, or killed, if you don't comply with the police. The best thing to do is comply with the police, and challenge their action in court.

Where should I go to turn myself in?

If a judge issues an arrest warrant, and the state has not yet filed criminal charges against you, then you can turn yourself in by going to the police department.

Does it matter when I run?

EARLY EVENING (1700-2000) There's a lot of research showing that running in the early evening is the best time for peak performance. At this time, core body and skeletal muscle temperatures peak, as well as lung function, and that improves energy use and efficiency in the muscles.

Can you post bail before turning yourself in?

Posting bond before turning yourself in will not only speed up the process but may save you money. Once the bond has been posted, the person with the warrant will be able to turn themselves in without having to pay their full bail amount up front. The bond agency guarantees the payment.

Does turning yourself in help your case?

While turning yourself in is often the best way to regain control of the situation, it's not a decision to take lightly. Before you act, there are important factors to consider, such as what to expect during the process, how to minimize time in custody, and how proper preparation can protect your rights.

What to expect when I turn myself in?

What Happens When I Turn Myself In?
  • Processing: You will be taken into custody and processed, which includes taking fingerprints, photographs, and personal information.
  • Arraignment: You'll be brought before a judge for arraignment, where charges will be formally read, and your bail will be set.

What should you wear when you turn yourself in?

When you arrange to turn yourself in, try to wear comfortable clothing that doesn't look sloppy. If you intend to post bail immediately, bring your credit card or cash to pay the bond and essential identification, like a driver's license or state ID card.

Is it smart to turn yourself in?

The decision to voluntarily turn yourself in can show you're attempting to cooperate with the police. Again, this simple act can provide your attorney with room to work proactively on your case, while eliminating many negative consequences that could otherwise happen.

What is the best time to hand yourself in?

Best time is Before they catch you, Talk to and hire a lawyer if possible, if you cannot afford one they will appoint one for you after you turn yourself in. If they catch you while you're running from a warrant you might end up declared a flight risk and be denied or have increased bond.

Do you get leniency for turning 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.

What is a short sentence for yourself?

I'm ready to go home now but I don't want to drag you away if you're enjoying yourself. "Might I have some more bread?" "Please, help yourself!" Don't even think about lifting me up, Ted, you might do yourself an injury. "I don't think I'll come to the party tonight." "All right, suit yourself!"

What happens if you don't self-surrender?

Specifically, you can be charged with an FTA under 18 U.S.C. 3146 if either of the following is true: You are on pre-trial release, and you fail to appear in court under the conditions of that release; or. You have been convicted of a federal crime, and you fail to surrender yourself when your sentence is set to begin.

Can you pay off a warrant in California?

For payment relief options, see the Payment Options and Financial Hardship Information page. If you have failed to appear on a traffic/minor offense case and a warrant has been issued, you may be able to pay the total bail or an appearance in court may be necessary. Warrants cannot be settled over the phone or online.

How long do you have to turn yourself in after a warrant?

While some might assume there's a grace period, this is not always true, and the individual is typically advised to address the warrant as soon as possible.

How long do warrants stay active in California?

Simply put, warrants never expire. However, suppose the criminal statute of limitations (SOL) has expired. In that case, you might be able to get the case dismissed for passing the time limitations. In California, the SOL for misdemeanors is generally one year from the time of the offense.