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If You Discovered There Is a Warrant Out for Your Arrest

By Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney on June 15, 2023

It can be devastating to find out that a warrant has been issued for your arrest. Whether you were tipped off by a phone call, notified through a background check, or discovered it through other means, it’s essential to respond quickly and seek the help of an attorney.

The Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys at Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP understand the high stakes involved. Our legal team includes former senior prosecutors with decades of experience defending clients against criminal charges in California. If you believe there is a warrant out for your arrest, we are prepared to help you take immediate steps to protect your freedom, your record, and your future.

Don’t Wait to Be Arrested

Call (213) 688-0460 to speak with an experienced Los Angeles defense attorney who can help you handle the warrant discreetly.

Stay Calm and Contact an Attorney

It’s natural to panic when you hear there may be a warrant out for your arrest. But your first step should be to stay calm. Do not attempt to confront law enforcement or try to resolve the matter on your own. Your attorney can verify the warrant and determine the best course of action.

Consulting With a California Criminal Defense Lawyer

Once you’ve gathered the basic facts, contact a qualified criminal defense attorney immediately. At Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, we:

• Confirm whether a warrant exists
• Determine whether the warrant is for arrest, failure to appear, or a probation violation
• Contact the court or issuing agency on your behalf
• Discuss options for surrender, bail, or warrant recall
• Begin building a defense based on the underlying allegations

Reasons to See a Lawyer Right Away

Delaying action after discovering a warrant can make your legal situation worse. Here’s why speaking with a lawyer immediately is essential:

• Avoid a Public or Embarrassing Arrest – An attorney can arrange a discreet surrender or negotiate a recall of the warrant.
• Prevent Additional Charges – Failure to act can lead to additional offenses like failure to appear or resisting arrest.
• Begin Building a Defense – Early intervention allows your legal team to gather facts and develop a strategy before you’re taken into custody.
• Navigate Bail and Release Options – A lawyer can work to reduce bail or secure your release on recognizance.
• Protect Your Rights From the Start – Law enforcement may try to question or pressure you. A lawyer ensures you don’t make statements that harm your case.

Understanding California Warrant Laws

A warrant is a legal order issued by a judge or magistrate authorizing law enforcement to take a particular action, typically, to arrest you or search your property. In California, warrants are governed by the California Penal Code and must meet specific legal standards.

Warrants are often issued without your knowledge, especially if you missed a court date, are under investigation, or failed to comply with a court order. Once active, they empower law enforcement to arrest you anywhere, even during a traffic stop or at work.

Types of Warrants

Understanding the type of warrant issued in your case helps guide the legal strategy. The two most common types are arrest warrants and bench warrants.

Arrest Warrants

An arrest warrant is issued when law enforcement or prosecutors have shown probable cause that you committed a crime. The judge reviews evidence or affidavits before issuing the warrant.

You do not need to be notified in advance. Police can come to your home, workplace, or stop you in public once the warrant is active.

Bench Warrants

A bench warrant is typically issued for failure to appear in court, failure to comply with a court order such as paying a fine, or violating probation. Even minor infractions can lead to a bench warrant.

Despite being administrative in nature, bench warrants carry the same authority as arrest warrants and can result in jail time if not addressed.

Confirming the Validity of the Warrant

It’s critical to ensure that any action taken is based on accurate, current information. Acting on outdated or incorrect details can complicate the situation. Your attorney can confirm the existence and validity of a warrant by:

• Contacting the court clerk
• Reviewing court databases or law enforcement records
• Speaking directly with the issuing agency or prosecutor

Developing a Defense Strategy With Your Attorney

If the warrant is tied to an underlying criminal investigation or past charges, your attorney will immediately begin crafting a defense strategy. This includes:

• Reviewing the facts behind the alleged offense
• Examining whether the warrant was legally issued
• Gathering exculpatory evidence and identifying legal defenses
• Preparing for potential arraignment or bail hearings
• Opening negotiations with prosecutors when appropriate

The goal is to get ahead of the charges before they escalate. In some cases, resolving the warrant early can lead to dismissal, diversion programs, or significantly reduced penalties.

Why Choose Us Over Other Criminal Defense Lawyers in Los Angeles?

When your freedom is on the line, you need an attorney who knows how to command the courtroom and deliver positive results under pressure. That’s exactly what Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP brings to every case we take on.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Led by Former Prosecutors – Our team includes former Assistant Head Deputy District Attorneys and former Assistant United States Attorneys.
• High-Profile Defense Experience – We’ve defended celebrities, executives, and public officials in some of the most challenging criminal cases in California.
• Recognized Legal Excellence – Our attorneys are consistently listed by Super Lawyers and rated AV Preeminent® by Martindale-Hubbell.
• Strategic Case Management – Every case is prepared with a trial-ready mindset from day one.
• Respected by Prosecutors and Judges – Our reputation for professionalism and results allows us to negotiate from a position of strength.
• Full-Service Criminal Defense – We handle everything from pre-arrest investigations and warrant resolution to trial and post-conviction representation.
• Trusted for Discretion – We are known for resolving sensitive legal issues quietly and effectively.

How Your Attorney Can Help

When you retain Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, we take swift and comprehensive action to protect your rights and limit your exposure. Our attorneys can:

• Verify the warrant and explain its legal impact
• Communicate directly with law enforcement and the court to avoid unnecessary arrest
• Arrange for a safe and voluntary surrender, if needed, to help avoid jail time
• File motions to recall or quash the warrant where appropriate
• Work to secure bail or release on your own recognizance
• Advocate for pre-trial diversion or other alternatives
• Build a strong defense to contest any underlying charges

Our legal team has resolved thousands of criminal cases at every stage, from investigation and arrest to trial and appeal. We are known for stepping into urgent legal situations and taking control quickly and effectively.

What Clients Are Saying About Us

I would trust them with my life-JoAnn G. (5-Star Yelp Review)

They’re amazing with integrity and accessibility. They truly saved the life of someone I know. I recommend them beyond all. I would trust them with my life.

I cannot thank him enough- Allen T. (5-Star Yelp Review)

Mark Werksman is a professional, educated, and articulate lawyer. He goes above and beyond to successfully represent his clients. He is full of wit and quick on his feet. Before I came to Mark, my mind was full of doubt with previous lawyers. One of them even told me there was nothing they could do to help me. Mark managed to settle my case beyond my expectations. He kept me updated with constant positive follow-ups. He stays on top of things and he strives to achieve nothing but the best results for all of his clients. I felt this every time I spoke with him. Thanks to Mark, the stress and worries are out the window. I cannot thank him enough. There are many lawyers out there. However, rationale, quick thinking, and intellect are rare. Mark meets the criteria for a top-notch lawyer.

Case Results

First Degree Murder Charges Dismissed

Alan Jackson defended a 22-year-old Bakersfield man accused of first-degree murder in the 2015 stabbing death of his brother. Alan and his team took over the case on the eve of trial. Notwithstanding the short time for preparation, Alan’s team undertook an exhaustive investigation, which revealed the killing was in self-defense. During the trial, Alan’s relentless cross-examination of the prosecution’s two main witnesses established that they were actually complicit in attacking Alan’s client, in the attack that led to the decedent’s death. The prosecution’s case crumbled and the DA dismissed the murder charges. Alan’s client, previously facing life in prison, walked out of court with probation and no time in jail.

Hit-and-Run Charges Dismissed

A Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP attorney’s client, a small-business owner, was criminally charged by the Los Angeles City Attorney with misdemeanor hit-and-run and filing a false police report. He faced more than a year in jail and hundreds of dollars in fines. The attorney aggressively fought the charges, and following an extensive investigation, exposed significant legal problems with the City Attorney’s case. After the attorney convinced the City Attorney that her client was innocent of the alleged crimes, the City Attorney dismissed all charges.

Contact a Trusted Los Angles Criminal Defense Attorney About Your Warrant Right Away

If you believe there’s a warrant out for your arrest, taking action now can protect your rights and limit potential consequences. The criminal defense lawyers at Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP can help resolve the matter discreetly.

Call (213) 688-0460 to learn more today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I find out there’s a warrant for my arrest?

Stay calm and contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. Do not attempt to handle it on your own, and avoid contact with law enforcement until you’ve spoken with a lawyer.

How can I find out if the warrant is real?

Your attorney can verify the existence and status of the warrant by contacting the court, reviewing law enforcement databases, or speaking with the issuing agency on your behalf.

What’s the difference between an arrest warrant and a bench warrant?

An arrest warrant is issued when law enforcement has probable cause that a crime was committed. A bench warrant is typically issued when someone fails to appear in court or violates a court order.

Can I be arrested at work or home?

Yes. Once a warrant is active, law enforcement can arrest you at your home, job, during a traffic stop, or in any public place. Taking action before that happens can help avoid an embarrassing or harmful arrest.

Will I go to jail if I turn myself in?

Not necessarily. Your lawyer can often arrange a voluntary surrender and may be able to negotiate for bail, release on your own recognizance, or even have the warrant recalled without arrest.

Can my attorney get the warrant dropped?

In some cases, yes. Depending on the type of warrant and the reason it was issued, your attorney may file a motion to recall or quash the warrant without requiring you to be taken into custody.

What are the risks of ignoring the warrant?

Ignoring a warrant can lead to a surprise arrest, increased bail, additional charges like failure to appear, and a negative impression with the court. Acting quickly gives you more control over the outcome.

What happens after I’m taken into custody?

You may be booked into jail and held until a bail hearing or arraignment. Your attorney can advocate for your release and begin building a defense immediately.

Why should I hire Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP to handle my warrant?

Our attorneys are former prosecutors with decades of criminal law experience. We know how to move quickly, resolve warrants discreetly, and protect your rights from the start of the process.

About Our Law Firm

Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP is one of California’s most respected criminal defense law firms, representing individuals facing serious criminal investigations, complex indictments, and high-profile charges in both state and federal courts. Based in Los Angeles, our firm is known for delivering strategic, discreet, and aggressive representation in the most challenging legal environments.

Our attorneys are nationally recognized for their courtroom skill and results. Founding partner Mark Werksman is a former Assistant United States Attorney and Deputy District Attorney, with decades of trial experience and a reputation for successfully taking on demanding cases. Partner Alan Jackson served as Assistant Head Deputy of the Major Crimes Division at the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, where he led some of the most prominent prosecutions in California. Partner Kelly Quinn is a certified specialist in writs and appeals, handling post-conviction matters with precision and depth.

Our legal team offers a rare combination of prosecutorial insight and defense expertise to every case we take on. We represent clients from all walks of life, including entertainers, executives, public figures, professionals, and everyday individuals who face the life-changing impact of a criminal allegation.

At Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, we know how to manage media-sensitive cases, oversee complex investigations, and push back against the full weight of government prosecution. Whether you’re facing a grand jury subpoena, white-collar charges, or a serious felony accusation, we work relentlessly to protect your freedom, your reputation, and your future.

When the stakes are highest, experience matters. Call Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP at (213) 688-0460 for a confidential consultation.