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What is an Arrest Warrant?

A warrant is a document issued by a judge or magistrate compelling a person to appear to answer criminal charges. Once signed, a warrant is entered into the Law Enforcement Information Network (LEIN), a database accessible to all law enforcement officers. An open warrant allows a police officer to arrest a person without notice. In some cases, a court might send notice to someone subject to a warrant. The only way to have a warrant canceled or set aside is to appear at the court for an arraignment.

Common Questions

What is the difference between a bench warrant and a warrant?

A bench warrant is issued when a criminal defendant fails to appear in court and instructs law enforcement to arrest them, whereas an arrest warrant occurs after sufficient evidence has been uncovered in a criminal investigation that is presented to a prosecutor for authorization of charges and then presented to a judge for issuance of an arrest warrant.

Why do police arrest without warrant?

Michigan law allows police to make warrantless arrests in various circumstances, such as when an officer has probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed and the person being arrested committed the crime.

What is a inactive warrant?

An inactive warrant pertains to a warrant on an inactive case, such as a case that is relatively old. However, the warrant itself is still active. This means if a person is stopped by police and a warrants check is performed, the police can hold the person until they consult with the court that issued the warrant.

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