If you have an outstanding warrant for your arrest, no matter what it’s for, it’s better to deal with it sooner rather than later. If you wait, you increase your chances of being arrested on their terms, not yours, which could mean that you get arrested during a simple traffic stop or worse, it happens in front of your family or at your place of employment. You can avoid the embarrassment by turning yourself in. On your terms.
By turning yourself in, you also show the court that you are taking responsibility for your own actions which could earn you some points with the judge.
Lawyer Up
First, hire a criminal defense attorney. You’ll most likely be arrested when you turn yourself in but you may be able to change that if you have an attorney. An attorney may be able to get your bail reduced or make a plea deal that might even get the warrant recalled. In the very least, a criminal defense attorney can advise you on the best way to proceed. By having an attorney help you, you may be able to avoid a night in prison. Without one, you may have to spend a night or two in jail as you await your arraignment.
What To Wear and Bring
When you turn yourself in, dress neatly You should be comfortable without looking like a slob. Pack only what you need; you’re not going to Club Med. Bring your ID with you along with cash or cards for bail and a paper list of any important phone numbers (like your lawyer’s). If you require medication, bring it with you and inform the arresting officer. It shouldn’t need to be said not to bring in anything illegal with you like weapons or drugs but they’ll confiscate tobacco products too so leave them at home. Avoid shoes or clothing with laces in them because those will be taken away from you too.
Arrest
If your arrest warrant is for something minor like failing to pay a traffic ticket, you may be able to simply post bail on the original charge with the courts before law enforcement can arrest you. When you turn yourself in and are arrested, they are required to read you your Miranda Rights. Heed them. Remain silent and call your lawyer.
By being prepared and turning yourself in, you can pick the day. If you wait until the end of the week, you risk having to spend a weekend in jail waiting for your arraignment. Mondays can be hectic because a lot of arrests are made over the weekend, so turning yourself in sometime Tuesday-Thursday is best.
If you know that you have a warrant out for your arrest, the best thing you can do is to act proactively and take control of your life.
Mercy Bail Bonds can help if you or a loved one has been arrested in New Port Richey, Central Florida, or anywhere nationwide. We’re available 24/7 to answer your call and to begin the bail bond process as soon as possible and get him out of jail, sometimes in just a few hours. Call Mercy today at (727) 856-7775 and we’ll get your loved one back home before you know it.