Philadelphia Criminal Defense Lawyers: Are All Warrants the Same?

A warrant is an order disseminated by a magistrate or judge that empowers law enforcement officials to perform an act that would normally breach a person’s individual rights, in the pursuit of resolving a crime. Types of warrants issued include extradition, search, bench, execution, and dispossessory. While the name of each warrant differs by state, each type is executed in the same manner. Below are brief explanations of several types of warrants.

Search Warrant

A search warrant authorizes officers to search a person’s residence, vehicle, work, or person for evidence. Probable cause is required to violate a person’s right to privacy. Most searches do require a search warrant. An exception is if a criminal flees the scene of a crime. Once caught, the officer has the right to search the criminal’s property without a search warrant. This is intended to protect the public and law enforcement officers from harm.

Bench Warrant

A bench warrant authorizes the immediate arrest of a person. Most often, judges will issue this type of warrant for a subject who intentionally avoided a court appearance or failed to comply with a court order. Once issued, police officers can arrest the individual and bring before the judge.

Extradition Warrant

An extradition warrant is for a fugitive who has fled to another state. The power of this type of warrant allows law enforcement to extradite the arrested individual back to the state in which the crime was committed.

Dispossessory Warrant

Also known as an eviction warrant, this type is used to evict a tenant. After many attempts to have a tenant moved, the property owner may go before a judge and request the right to the tenant’s property. Once granted, the property owner is given the right to enter the premises, remove the tenant’s belongings, and change the locks.

We Can Help…Today!

Hiring the right criminal defense lawyer may be one of the most important decisions you make for yourself and your family. If you feel you have been arrested or have questions about a warrant issued against you, call us at 215-735-3326, toll free at 800-555-7780 or contact us online to discuss your case. Our consultations are free of charge, and you are under no obligation to take your case further. All cases are handled on a contingency basis. Contact our Philadelphia criminal lawyers today!