What do I need to know before turning myself in?
Should I contact a lawyer before turning myself in?
Yes, absolutely. Contacting a lawyer before turning yourself in for a warrant is highly recommended. A lawyer can advise you of your rights, explain the potential charges and penalties you face, negotiate with law enforcement on your behalf, and potentially arrange for a smoother surrender process, possibly even negotiating for your release on bail or personal recognizance immediately after turning yourself in.
Contacting an attorney allows you to understand the specifics of the warrant and the allegations against you. They can investigate the warrant's validity, determine if there are any legal defenses available, and prepare you for what to expect during the booking process and your initial court appearance. This preparation can significantly reduce your anxiety and ensure that you don't inadvertently say or do anything that could harm your case. Furthermore, a lawyer can act as a buffer between you and law enforcement. By communicating through your attorney, you minimize the risk of incriminating yourself or providing information that could be used against you. Your lawyer can also ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process, including your right to remain silent and your right to counsel. They can attend your arraignment and begin building a defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances.What documentation do I need to bring when surrendering?
When surrendering yourself on a warrant, it's crucial to bring documentation that can assist in your identification and processing. This typically includes a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport. Additionally, if you have documentation related to the warrant itself, such as the warrant number or charging documents, bring those as well.
Having proper identification expedites the booking process and helps law enforcement accurately verify your identity. The presence of warrant-related documents allows officials to quickly understand the charges against you and can potentially streamline the proceedings. While not strictly required, it's also helpful to bring contact information for your attorney, if you have one, as well as contact details for someone who can assist you after your release, should release be granted.
Beyond identification and warrant details, consider bringing only essential personal items. Secure your valuables at home, and bring only what you need, such as money for a phone call or vending machine (if permitted), or necessary medication with the prescription. Avoid bringing anything that could be construed as a weapon or contraband, as this will only complicate the surrender process and potentially lead to additional charges.
Where exactly do I go to turn myself in at the courthouse?
Typically, you would go to the clerk's office or the sheriff's department within the courthouse to turn yourself in on a warrant. Call the courthouse or sheriff's department beforehand to confirm the exact procedure and location, as this can vary depending on the courthouse and the specific circumstances of your warrant.
The process often involves initially contacting the clerk's office to inform them of your intention to surrender on the warrant. They can then direct you to the appropriate location, which might be the sheriff's department or a specific intake area within the court building. Be prepared to provide identification and any information you have about the warrant, such as the case number or the charges against you. It's crucial to remain calm and respectful throughout the process, as you will be interacting with law enforcement and court personnel. It is also strongly advised to consult with an attorney before turning yourself in. An attorney can advise you on your rights, the potential consequences of surrendering, and represent you during any court proceedings. They can also potentially arrange for your surrender in a way that minimizes disruption to your life and protects your legal interests. Having legal representation can make the process smoother and ensure you are treated fairly.Will I be immediately arrested after turning myself in?
Yes, you should expect to be arrested immediately upon turning yourself in for an outstanding warrant. The very purpose of the warrant is to bring you into custody to face the charges against you. While the process might vary slightly depending on the jurisdiction and the nature of the warrant, the fundamental outcome will be your arrest.
Once you surrender, you'll be processed, which typically involves fingerprinting, photographing, and confirming your identity. Depending on the specifics of the warrant and local procedures, you might be held until you can see a judge for an arraignment or a bail hearing. This hearing determines if you will be released on bail, released on your own recognizance, or remain in custody until your trial. The severity of the crime, your prior criminal record (if any), and your ties to the community are all factors the judge will consider. It's highly recommended that you consult with an attorney *before* turning yourself in. An attorney can advise you on your rights, explain the charges against you, and potentially negotiate with law enforcement or the prosecutor's office on your behalf. Having legal representation can sometimes expedite the process or even influence the conditions of your release after your arrest.Can I turn myself in on a weekend or holiday?
Yes, you can turn yourself in on a weekend or holiday, but the process might differ slightly compared to a weekday. While police stations are generally open 24/7, the availability of court personnel and judges for processing your warrant and setting bail (if applicable) may be limited. This could mean a longer wait time before you are seen by a judge.
Typically, when you turn yourself in on a weekend or holiday, you will be processed at the police station or the jail. You'll be booked, which includes taking your photograph and fingerprints. Since the courts are usually closed, you may be held in custody until the next business day when you can be arraigned. Arraignment is the court appearance where you will be formally advised of the charges against you and a judge will address bail.
Before turning yourself in, it is highly recommended to contact an attorney. They can advise you on the best course of action, including the optimal time and location to surrender. An attorney can also contact the court ahead of time, if possible, to expedite the process and potentially arrange for bail in advance, which might minimize the time you spend in custody. While you have the right to represent yourself, having legal counsel can be extremely beneficial in navigating the complexities of the legal system.
How can I find out the exact charges related to the warrant?
The most reliable way to find out the exact charges related to the warrant is to contact the court that issued it, or the law enforcement agency that holds it. They can provide you with the specific details, including the statute numbers, descriptions of the offenses, and potential penalties.
Reaching out directly allows you to gather accurate information, rather than relying on potentially outdated or incomplete records from online databases or third-party sources. When you contact the court or law enforcement, be prepared to provide your name, date of birth, and any other identifying information they might need to locate the warrant. Asking for the case number associated with the warrant can also expedite the process. It's often beneficial to do this through an attorney; they can navigate the legal system and ensure your rights are protected.
Consider contacting a local attorney before you attempt to resolve the warrant on your own. An attorney can review the charges, advise you on the best course of action, and potentially negotiate with the court or prosecutor on your behalf. They can also appear with you when you turn yourself in, which can sometimes lead to a more favorable outcome during the initial stages of the process. Furthermore, an attorney can assess if there are any grounds to challenge the warrant's validity.
What happens to my car if I drive myself to surrender?
If you drive yourself to surrender on a warrant, your car will likely be impounded, especially if the warrant is for a serious offense or if the jurisdiction has strict policies. The car is impounded because you are being taken into custody and cannot legally operate the vehicle; it cannot simply be left unattended at the courthouse or police station.
When you surrender yourself, the police will take you into custody immediately. This means you will not be allowed to make arrangements for your vehicle. Because the car cannot be left unattended (and poses a security risk), law enforcement will arrange for it to be towed and impounded. You will be responsible for all towing and storage fees associated with the impound, and these can accumulate quickly. The fees must be paid before the vehicle is released to you or someone you authorize. Therefore, it is strongly advisable to arrange for someone else to drive you to surrender or to park the car in a safe and legal place nearby where a licensed and insured driver can retrieve it immediately after you enter the police station. This will prevent impoundment and save you potentially hundreds of dollars. Coordinate with a friend, family member, or even your attorney ahead of time. If that is not possible, explore alternative transportation options like a taxi or rideshare service to avoid the cost and hassle of impoundment.Okay, that's the lowdown on turning yourself in. It's not exactly a fun day at the park, but hopefully this has made the process a little less daunting. Thanks for reading, and seriously, I hope everything works out smoothly for you. Come back and visit anytime you need some straightforward advice!