Alabama Warrant Search
In Alabama, arrest and bench warrants are always issued by the courts, that instructs law enforcement to take a specific action. This can entail making an arrest or demanding someone to appear in court. Warrants are serious legal orders that should never be ignored. Understanding the different types and their significance can help people better navigate potential legal situations. The process of running an Alabama warrant search starts with knowing the correct spelling of the person of interest, and then determining what type of warrant you want to lookup.
Types of Warrants in Alabama: Bench Warrants vs. Arrest Warrants
There are two main types of warrants in Alabama: bench warrants and arrest warrants. Although both serve the purpose of compelling individuals to respond to legal proceedings, they differ significantly in scope and purpose.
Bench Warrants are issued by a judge, typically when a person fails to appear in court as required. This could happen in cases where someone is required to attend a hearing or a trial but neglects to do so. A bench warrant can also be issued for failing to comply with court orders, such as paying fines or completing community service. Bench warrants do not necessarily imply that the person is being accused of a new crime but rather that they are not meeting their obligations related to a prior legal matter.
Arrest Warrants, on the other hand, are issued when law enforcement has probable cause to believe that an individual has committed a crime. These warrants authorize police to arrest the individual and bring them into custody. Arrest warrants typically arise after an investigation has gathered sufficient evidence to justify criminal charges, such as assault, theft, or more serious offenses. Arrest warrants are focused on addressing new criminal conduct rather than court-related noncompliance.
How to Run an Alabama Warrant Search Online
If you suspect that a warrant has been issued in your name or someone else's, it is important to take steps to verify and acknowledge this immediately. There are several ways to run an Alabama warrant search online:
1). County Sheriff's Office: Each county in Alabama has a sheriff's office that maintains records of active warrants. Many sheriff’s offices provide online warrant search tools, allowing the public to search for outstanding warrants by name. In counties without online tools, you can contact the office directly by phone or in person to inquire about active warrants. For example, you can check for warrants in Mobile Alabama by contacting the Mobile County Sheriff Department.
2). Alabama Court System: Court records may also provide information about warrants, particularly if the warrant was issued as part of a court case. You can search Alabama court records through the Alabama Judicial System's website or by visiting the courthouse in person to inquire.
3). The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency: This agency offers a publicly accessible fugitive search for those that are evading law enforcement. These are posted daily on the ALEA website.
3). Third-Party Websites: Some third-party sites offer warrant search services that aggregate data from various law enforcement agencies. While these services may be convenient, it is essential to verify the accuracy of the information, as these sites may not be as up to date as official sources. However, these resources do allow users to run background checks which hold a lot of valuable information. You can find out about a person's arrest history, convictions, criminal court records, incarcerations, and public record abstracts.
4). Attorney Assistance: Hiring an attorney is often the most reliable method for checking the status of a warrant, especially if there are concerns about potential arrest. Attorneys can quickly access court records and law enforcement databases to determine if a warrant exists and provide guidance on how to handle the situation.
What to Do If You Have a Warrant in Your Name
Discovering that a warrant has been issued in your name can be disturbing, but it is crucial to handle the situation promptly and responsibly. Here are the steps to take if you find yourself in this position:
1). Do Not Ignore the Warrant: Ignoring a warrant can lead to more severe consequences, including additional charges and a higher likelihood of being arrested at an inconvenient time. It's better to address the issue directly rather than risk an unexpected encounter with law enforcement.
2). Contact an Attorney: One of the first steps you should take is to contact an attorney. An experienced lawyer can guide you through the process, negotiate with law enforcement or prosecutors on your behalf, and represent you in court. In some cases, your attorney may be able to arrange for a voluntary surrender, which could ease the penalties or consequences you might face.
3). Turn Yourself In: Depending on the nature of the warrant, you may be able to voluntarily surrender to the authorities. Doing so validates a willingness to cooperate with the legal process and may influence how you are treated by the court. Your attorney can help you arrange a time and place to turn yourself in to minimize stress and confusion.
4). Resolve Any Underlying Issues: If the warrant stalks from failure to appear in court, unpaid fines, or noncompliance with a court order, resolving these issues promptly may help clear the warrant and potentially reduce any penalties. You may be able to arrange a new court date, pay outstanding fines, or complete required community service to satisfy the court.
5). Attend All Court Proceedings: Once you have addressed the warrant, ensure that you attend all court proceedings related to your case. Failing to appear again could result in another warrant being issued, possibly complicating your legal situation further.
Are Warrants Considered Public Records in Alabama?
Yes, all warrants are public information that anyone can search online. These are posted on various law enforcement, courthouse, and third party websites that can be searched with a first and last name. These can result in someone's arrest or a court order to appear in court. These are a means for state and county governments to maintain law and order.
Can I Be Arrested for an Alabama Warrant?
Yes, if you have an arrest warrant issued in your name you will be arrested on the spot by law enforcment when they find you. These are court orders that command the police to apprehend someone for an alleged crime. A bench warrant on the other hand rarely leads to someone's arrest, however they are also court orders that demand a person's presence in court. If these re ignored, they can eventually lead to an arrest.
