Understanding the system
What Is an Active Warrant and How to Check for One
An outstanding warrant can lead to an arrest at the worst possible moment. This guide explains the types of warrants and how to check for one the right way.
Last updated 5 min read
The main types of warrants
A warrant is a court order, signed by a judge, that authorizes police to take a specific action. The kinds you are most likely to encounter are:
- Arrest warrant — issued when there is probable cause to believe a person committed a crime.
- Bench warrant — issued by a judge when someone fails to appear in court or violates a court order.
- Search warrant — authorizes police to search a specific place for evidence.
What 'active' means
An active or outstanding warrant is one that has been issued and not yet resolved — it remains in effect until the person is arrested, appears in court, or the warrant is recalled. Active warrants are entered into law enforcement databases, which is why they can surface during a routine traffic stop or any contact with police.
How to check for a warrant
There are several ways to find out whether a warrant exists:
- County sheriff or court website — many publish searchable warrant lists online.
- Call the court clerk — the clerk can often confirm whether a bench warrant was issued in a case.
- Consult an attorney — the safest route, since a lawyer can check and advise without exposing you to immediate arrest.
What to do if there is one
Ignoring a warrant does not make it go away; it stays active and the situation usually gets worse over time. The recommended step is to speak with a criminal defense attorney, who can explain your options, sometimes arrange a voluntary surrender on favorable terms, or move to have a bench warrant recalled. Handling it proactively is almost always better than being arrested unexpectedly.