Fort Worth Arrest Warrant Lawyer

Trusted Arrest Warrant Attorney Representing Clients in Fort Worth, Texas

Finding out that a warrant has been issued for your arrest can be highly stressful. Whether you have been charged with a felony crime or a misdemeanor, you need serious criminal defense representation on your side. A Fort Worth, Texas arrest warrant attorney can help you figure out your best course of action to protect your rights and avoid hurting your case.

At The Meza Law Firm, PLLC, we have earned hundreds of positive reviews from clients who have trusted us with serious legal issues. As a highly experienced defense attorney, Edwardo Meza is here to help you understand your options while working to protect your future.

What Is an Arrest Warrant?

An arrest warrant is a court order that allows law enforcement to take a specific person into custody. In Texas, a magistrate usually issues an arrest warrant after a police officer or prosecutor files a sworn statement showing probable cause that the person committed a crime. A warrant can also follow a grand jury indictment. Once the warrant is active, officers can arrest the named person at home, at work, or during a routine traffic stop.

A bench warrant is a different type of order. A judge issues a bench warrant when a person is already involved in a court case and fails to follow the court's instructions. The most common reason is a missed court date. Other reasons include violating bond conditions, failing to pay court-ordered fines, or ignoring a subpoena. An arrest warrant typically starts a criminal case, while a bench warrant usually involves a case that is already open.

How Should You Respond to an Arrest Warrant?

Learning that you have an arrest warrant can be frightening, but ignoring the warrant will only make the situation harder. Warrants in Texas do not expire on their own. An officer could arrest you months or even years later, often at an inconvenient time and in front of family, coworkers, or neighbors. Checking with the Tarrant County clerk's office or a defense attorney can confirm whether a warrant exists and what charge it involves.

A better approach is to plan a voluntary surrender. Speaking with a criminal defense attorney before you turn yourself in can help you understand the charge and what to expect at the jail. In some cases, it may be possible to arrange bond ahead of time so that you spend less time in custody. A planned surrender can also show the judge that you are not trying to avoid the case.

Avoid discussing the facts of the accusation with police officers, investigators, or anyone else. Statements made before or after an arrest can be used as evidence. You have the right to remain silent and the right to have a lawyer present during questioning.

Can You Get Out on Bail After an Arrest in Fort Worth?

Most people arrested in Fort Worth can be released on bail while their case moves forward. After an arrest, a magistrate reviews the charge and sets the bail amount and any conditions of release. The magistrate may consider the nature of the offense, the person's criminal history, the safety of any alleged victim, and the person's ability to pay.

Texas allows several forms of bond. A cash bond requires paying the full amount to the court. A surety bond involves a bondsman who posts the bond in exchange for a fee, which is usually not refunded. A personal bond allows release based on a written promise to appear, although it is not available for every offense.

If the bail amount is too high, a defense attorney can ask the court to lower it at a bond hearing. Evidence about your job, family ties, and history of showing up to court can support that request. Certain serious charges may lead to stricter conditions or, in limited situations, denial of bail.

Contact Our Fort Worth, TX Arrest Warrant Attorney

An outstanding warrant can leave you waiting for a knock on the door at any moment. At The Meza Law Firm, PLLC, we help clients take control of the situation by planning a surrender, preparing for bond, and building a defense to the underlying charge. Contact our Fort Worth, Texas arrest warrant lawyer or call 817-732-6392 to schedule a free consultation.