Warrants
Warrant Help in Spokane
Address an Active Bench Warrant with Trial-Tested Guidance
An active bench warrant can lead to arrest and raise immediate questions about court appearances, custody, and bail. Maxey Law Office assists people facing bench warrants as part of our criminal law practice. We review the available case information and explain the court-related issues that may shape the next step.
Since 1980, we have provided personalized legal representation to people facing serious concerns in Spokane and across Eastern Washington and Northern Idaho. Our broader criminal defense work includes federal and state matters.
We also assist with:
- Bond hearings
- Parole violations
- Administrative hearings
- Expungements
Call (509) 652-3330 to arrange a free criminal defense consultation about your warrant.
How Bench, Arrest & Search Warrants Differ
Bench warrants, arrest warrants, and search warrants serve different legal purposes. Identifying the type involved clarifies what the warrant authorizes and which court or agency issued it.
Bench Warrants
A court may issue a bench warrant authorizing law enforcement to arrest someone who failed to appear as required or didn’t comply with a court order. Washington court rule CrRLJ 3.4 allows a court to order one when a defendant misses a required appearance. Probation violations and unresolved court obligations are other common reasons for this type of warrant.
Arrest Warrants
An arrest warrant authorizes law enforcement to take the named person into custody in connection with an alleged criminal offense. Its purpose differs from that of a warrant issued for a missed appearance or failure to follow an existing court order.
Search Warrants
A search warrant authorizes law enforcement to search the person, property, or location described in the warrant. Although a search and an arrest can involve the same investigation, the warrant itself doesn’t authorize an arrest.
How to Check a Warrant in Spokane County
The county doesn’t provide warrant information by telephone. To determine whether a warrant is active, a person must go to the Spokane County Public Safety Building and present proper identification. Because warrant status can change, it should be confirmed through the appropriate court or county process.
The Spokane County Sheriff’s Office maintains and serves active warrants issued by local courts. Washington arrest and bench warrants generally remain active until they’re served, recalled by the court, or addressed through the person’s appearance. The passage of time alone doesn’t necessarily clear a warrant.
Warrant Service Across Washington
A warrant issued in one county isn’t necessarily limited to that county. Under RCW 10.34.010, an officer serving a warrant may pursue and apprehend the named person in another Washington county. Understanding the warrant information is important before deciding how to respond.
When Failure to Appear Can Lead to Another Charge
Bail jumping is a separate criminal charge based on failing to appear under circumstances defined by law. Under RCW 9A.76.170, failing to appear for trial after receiving written notice can result in this charge. Its level depends on the underlying offense.
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What to Discuss During a Warrant Consultation
During a consultation, we assess the available case information and applicable court requirements before you decide how to respond. We distinguish confirmed information from assumptions about the warrant’s status or the court’s likely decision.
Important details to be prepared to discuss include:
- Issuing Court: The court connected to the warrant and the available warrant information.
- Underlying Charge: The alleged offense or court obligation associated with the case.
- Appearance History: Relevant court dates and the notice requiring an appearance.
- Custody Concerns: Questions involving arrest, a first appearance, or a bond hearing. A first appearance is the initial court hearing after a person enters custody.
Motions to Quash & Statutory Limits
A motion to quash formally asks the court to cancel or set aside a warrant. When the underlying charge is a violent or sex offense, RCW 9A.76.170 provides a limited route for avoiding a bail-jumping charge when the person moves to quash the warrant within 30 days after issuance or appears on that motion. Whether the statutory requirements apply depends on the facts and procedural history.
The same law recognizes an affirmative defense when uncontrollable circumstances prevented the appearance, the person didn’t negligently contribute to those circumstances, and the person appeared or surrendered as soon as the circumstances ended. An affirmative defense is a legally recognized reason that can defeat a charge when the required facts are established. We can evaluate whether the available information may satisfy those conditions without predicting how the court may rule.
Get Clear Guidance on an Active Warrant
We offer a free initial consultation for criminal defense matters involving warrants. We can review immediate questions about the issuing court, underlying case, custody, and bail. When circumstances require it, we can meet with clients at their home or hospital.
Contact our attorneys through our online form or by calling (509) 652-3330 to discuss warrant help in Spokane.
