What Happens After Filing a Warrant?

Courthouse

When someone commits a crime, the police investigate the evidence to determine who committed the crime. When they find sufficient evidence, or when a citizen makes a legitimate complaint against someone for criminal activity, the court may issue a warrant.

Custody

Once the court issues a warrant, a police officer may arrest the person in question and take them into custody, explains the Third Judicial District Court. The suspect stays in custody until a court appearance.

First Court Appearance

Once arrested, the person in custody appears before a magistrate judge to hear his/her rights. Those without attorneys may get one at this time. Misdemeanor cases combine the first court appearance with the arraignment, states the Third Judicial District Court of Idaho. The arraignment is when the defendant makes a plea.

Felony

Those charged with a felony must come back to the court after the first visit for an arraignment. Defendants of a felony may not plea during the first appearance, says the Third Judicial District Court of Idaho. The Judge sets the trial date at the arraignment.

Expiration

Warrants do not run-out or expire, according to the New York City Police Department. To clear a warrant, the defendant must appear before the court with the issued warrant.

References

• New York City Police Department: Frequently Asked Questions
• Third Judicial District Court: What Happens in a Criminal Case?