What is a bench warrant?

A bench warrant is a type of court order issued by a judge or magistrate. It commands law enforcement to bring a person to court. The individual named in the warrant is usually requested to attend a hearing or trial in front of the court. In California, a bench warrant is issued in situations where a suspect fails to appear in court after being properly notified and summoned. If a person is wanted by the court, then a bench warrant can be issued to compel their presence. The purpose of a bench warrant is to ensure that the person named in it appears in court and complies with the process. A bench warrant is a serious matter and should be taken seriously. If arrested, the accused may be held in jail until they have the opportunity to appear before a judge and explain why they failed to attend court. The judge will then decide to either drop, modify, or enforce the warrant. It is important to remember that although a bench warrant may be issued, it is not an arrest warrant. Law enforcement officers cannot legally arrest someone just because a bench warrant is issued for them. The individual still has their right to due process and a fair hearing before the court. This means that the individual must still be properly notified and served with the bench warrant before they can be legally arrested and brought to court.

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