A Guide to a Las Vegas Warrant Search: Tips, & Resources
If you have an active warrant in Las Vegas, you could wind up in jail because the warrant shows up during a routine traffic stop. To avoid such a scenario, it is in your best interest to perform a Las Vegas warrant search and to address the warrant immediately if one does exist.
What Is the Difference between a Bench Warrant and a Search Warrant?
While either a bench warrant or an arrest warrant could result in your arrest, these are different types of warrants. An arrest warrant is issued when a judge is convinced that there is probable cause to believe you committed a criminal offense. Think of an arrest warrant as “step one” in a criminal prosecution in which you are the defendant. Once an arrest warrant has been issued, law enforcement agencies may actively search for you to arrest you.
A bench warrant, on the other hand, can be issued for a variety of reasons and may be issued at any point during a criminal prosecution. A bench warrant can even be issued after the conclusion of a criminal case because this type of warrant is based on a violation of court rules. For example, if you fail to appear at a court hearing, or you fail to report to probation as directed, the court might issue a bench warrant.
How Can I Conduct a Las Vegas Warrant Search?
The first step in getting a warrant recalled or vacated is to find out that a warrant is active. There are several ways to conduct a Las Vegas warrant search. If you believe the warrant was issued within the city limits, you can try navigating to the City of Las Vegas warrant search website and provide the requested information. You can also call the following courts as part of your Las Vegas warrant search:
- Las Vegas Municipal Court (702) 229-6201
- No Las Vegas Municipal Court (702) 633-1130
- No Las Vegas Justice Court (702) 455-7801
- Henderson Justice Court (702) 455-7951
- Clark County Justice Court (702) 671-3201
The best way to ensure that your search for active warrants is conducted thoroughly and accurately, however, is to contact an experienced Las Vegas criminal defense attorney. Along with knowing that you have covered all the bases in your search for warrants, involving an experienced attorney allows you to immediately and efficiently address a warrant if one is uncovered.
What Should I Do If I Have a Las Vegas Warrant?
If your own Las Vegas warrant search turns up an active bench warrant, a motion must be filed with the court to get the warrant quashed (remove the warrant). The court will typically set the matter for a hearing at which time you or your attorney can address the underlying basis for the warrant.
If you have an active arrest warrant, you will have to be “processed” before the warrant can be recalled. Processing is where they take your fingerprints and “mug” shot. While there is rarely a way around being officially arrested when you have an arrest warrant, having an experienced Las Vegas criminal defense attorney on your side can help you get through the process as quickly and smoothly as possible. Your attorney may be able to arrange to have your bail paid ahead of time or even get your bond reduced and, if a hearing is required, your attorney may be able to get you scheduled on the court’s docket as soon as possible, so you do not have to remain in jail any longer than necessary.
What Should I Do If I Am Concerned about a Las Vegas Warrant?
If you are concerned that you have an active arrest warrant in or around Las Vegas, contacting an experienced criminal defense attorney at The Vegas Lawyers is in your best interest. We can confirm that a warrant is active or assure you that you have no warrants. If you do have an active warrant, we will work with you to address the warrant as quickly as possible. If you are worried about a Las Vegas warrant, call us at 702-707-3000 or contact us online.