Finding out whether you or someone else has an active warrant in Texas may be necessary to avoid unexpected arrests or legal consequences. Fortunately, the state offers various methods for conducting a warrant search.
Whether you suspect you have an outstanding warrant or you’re looking into another person’s legal status, this guide will walk you through the process of checking for warrants in Texas.
Why Should You Check for Warrants?
Knowing whether you have an active warrant can help you avoid being unexpectedly arrested by the police or facing other legal complications. Moreover, resolving the issue early can give you a chance to hire a criminal defense attorney and handle the situation more smoothly.
Ways to Check for Warrants in Texas
There are several ways to conduct a warrant search in Texas:
Search County Court or Sheriff’s Office Websites
Many counties in Texas have their own online warrant search tools. These databases are maintained by the local county court or sheriff’s office and are publicly accessible. Some jurisdictions offer free searches, while others may charge a fee for access.
Here are the steps you can take to check for warrants on county websites:
- Visit the website of your local county court or sheriff’s office.
- Look for the section that mentions warrant searches or active warrants.
- Enter the required information, such as your full name or driver's license number, to check for outstanding warrants.
If you live in Harris County, for example, you can find an active warrant lookup tool on the county’s website.
Use the Texas Department of Public Safety Website
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) maintains a wide range of public records, including driver history, criminal history, and warrant information. To use their online service:
- Go to the Texas DPS website.
- Access the driver’s license or crime records search.
- Enter your driver's license number, full name, and other personal details to find out whether there’s an active warrant under your name.
This service may require a small fee for specific search results.
Contact Local Law Enforcement
If for some reason you can't perform a check online, try contacting your local police station or sheriff's office. Some departments allow you to call and check for outstanding warrants over the phone, while others may require you to visit in person.
Just be cautious, as visiting a police station in person could result in your immediate arrest if there’s an active warrant for you. It’s best to consult a legal professional first if you're concerned about a potential arrest.
Turn to a Legal Professional
If you’re unsure how to proceed, it's a good idea to reach out to a qualified legal professional, who can perform a warrant search on your behalf. Attorneys have access to an array of legal resources and can help you verify the status of any outstanding warrants. They can also advise you on how to handle the situation without unnecessary complications.
Types of Warrants in Texas
Several different types of warrants are recognized in Texas, each serving a specific purpose. Here are three of the most notable:
Arrest Warrant
A court issues an arrest warrant when there’s probable cause to believe that a person has committed a crime. If law enforcement has an arrest warrant for you, they’re legally allowed to detain you at any time.
Bench Warrant
A bench warrant is typically issued when a person fails to appear in court for a scheduled court date or refuses to comply with a court order. This type of warrant can also result in immediate arrest if law enforcement officers track down the subject.
Search Warrant
A search warrant authorizes the police to search a specific location, such as a home or vehicle, for evidence related to a criminal offense. It’s typically issued when there’s reasonable suspicion that the location contains evidence of a crime.
Can You Check Warrants for Free in Texas?
As mentioned, some counties and jurisdictions in Texas offer free warrant searches through public databases, while others charge a small fee. If you want to conduct a detailed warrant search, it’s essential to explore multiple avenues to verify the information.
Free searches may provide basic data, but a more thorough search often requires payment, assistance from a legal professional, or both.
Using Texas Public Records Websites
Another option for checking warrants is making use of public records databases like Texascriminalrecords.us. These websites compile public court and arrest records, often offering basic information for free. However, you may be required to pay a fee to access some details.
What to Do If You Have an Active Warrant
If you discover that there’s an active warrant in your name, it’s critical to address the matter quickly. Here are your options:
Consult a Legal Professional
If you find that you’re the subject of a warrant, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. They can advise you on how to surrender safely and negotiate with the court on your behalf.
Surrender Voluntarily
Some warrants, particularly those issued for minor offenses, allow for voluntary surrender. By cooperating with law enforcement, you may be able to reduce the chances of facing harsher penalties.
Prepare for a Court Appearance
You may need to pay fines, perform community service, or appear in court to resolve the warrant. Conferring with your attorney can help you ensure the best possible outcome.
Consequences of Ignoring an Active Warrant
Failing to address an active warrant can lead to serious consequences, including:
- Arrest
You could be arrested at any time, whether it’s at home, at work, or during a routine traffic stop. - Jail Time
Ignoring an active warrant could result in longer jail sentences or harsher penalties when you finally appear in court. - Fines
Disregarding warrants could also lead to additional fines or fees, which can add up over time.
In light of these potential repercussions, hiring an attorney is a small investment that could save you considerable trouble and expense later on.
Contact a Texas Criminal Defense Attorney for Help
Knowing how to check for warrants in Texas is essential for minimizing your legal woes. Whether you use online tools, contact local law enforcement, or seek professional help, being proactive about addressing these documents could keep you from seeing unnecessary jail time, steep fines, or other penalties.
If you need help dealing with an active warrant, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Turnbull Legal Group.
Our team is led by former State District Court Judge and Chief Prosecutor E.R. "Ned" Turnbull, and we have years of experience helping clients resolve complex legal issues. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Do You Have a Warrant out in Your Name?
If you have a warrant out for your arrest, it’s imperative to contact a lawyer as soon as possible. Reach out to Turnbull Legal Group today to avoid legal complications and improve your chances of a favorable resolution.
