What to Do When Pulled Over with Outstanding Warrants
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you have an outstanding warrant and are pulled over by the police? Dealing with such a situation can be stressful, but understanding the legal implications and what steps to take can help ease the process. In this article, we will explore how to handle being pulled over with an outstanding warrant and ensure your safety and compliance with the law.
Understanding Outstanding Warrants
Warrants are legal orders issued by a judge for your arrest, typically for a specific offense. An outstanding warrant means that you are legally required to appear before a court. However, how this manifests in practice can vary widely, from minor traffic violations to more serious offenses.
What Happens When You Are Pulled Over with an Outstanding Warrant
When you are pulled over by the police with an outstanding warrant, the officer's actions will depend on the nature of the warrant and the jurisdiction. Here are some common scenarios and what you can expect:
Scenario 1: Non-Restricted Warrants
Non-restricted warrants allow for arrest anywhere. If you are pulled over with such a warrant, the officer may take you in for verification and arrest if necessary. Verifying a warrant can sometimes take time, especially if it is an out-of-town warrant, requiring coordination with other jurisdictions.
Scenario 2: Geographically Restricted Warrants
If the warrant is geographically restricted, meaning it is only valid in a certain area, the officer may not have the authority to arrest you. In such cases, the officer will inform you of the warrant and the option to report to the relevant jurisdiction to resolve the issue.
Steps to Take When Pulled Over with an Outstanding Warrant
1. Remain Calm: Be cooperative with the officer to avoid any escalation of the situation.
2. Admit the Warrant if Prompted: If the officer questions you about your criminal history, it is often best to be honest and admit to the existence of the warrant.
3. Cooperate with the Verification Process: Allow the officer to check the active warrants. If a warrant is found, work with the officer to find a resolution or to verify and resolve the warrant.
Legal Considerations
Outstanding warrants can result in a variety of outcomes, including arrest and immediate incarceration. However, the severity of the situation can often depend on the nature of the warrant. For example, minor offenses like traffic violations may allow for immediate resolution, while more serious offenses may result in immediate arrest.
Preventing Outstanding Warrants
To avoid the hassle of an outstanding warrant, maintain regular contact with court officials and promptly address any unpaid fines, citations, or appear in court for any required appearances.
Conclusion
Dealing with an outstanding warrant can be a challenging experience, especially when pulled over by the police. Understanding the legal implications and what to expect can help you handle the situation more effectively. Always remain calm, cooperate with the officer, and work towards resolving the warrant as soon as possible to avoid further complications.