Should I turn myself in if I have a warrant in Florida?

If there is a warrant out for your arrest, it can be incredibly stressful to go to work or even just relax at home. At any time, a police officer could knock on your front door or visit you at work and arrest you in front of your friends, family, and co-workers. If you are wondering whether you should turn yourself in if you have a warrant, not only will it potentially save you a lot of embarrassment but in some cases, it can actually benefit your case.

What should I do before turning myself in?

Before turning yourself in, contact the attorneys at Goldman Wetzel today. We can confirm whether or not there is a warrant out for your arrest, find out what your bond amount is, and answer any other questions you may have about the process of turning yourself in.

Depending on who issued your warrant and the severity of your case, our attorneys may recommend a bondsman, accompany you before a judge, or file a motion asking for the state to withdraw your warrant or lower your bond amount.

For example, if you are simply looking to bond yourself out, Goldman Wetzel can help you to secure a bondsman and provide you with a basic walkthrough of the bailout process. Simple cases such as this happen when a detective has probable cause for your arrest and sends the warrant to the jail.

However, if a judge issued your warrant, then more hands-on assistance may be necessary. You might need a motion to withdraw the warrant or lower the bond amount. In these types of cases, the attorneys at Goldman Wetzel will set a motion to surrender on your behalf.

What can I expect when I turn myself in?

What you can expect depends on whether you are able to pay the bond amount.

If you can pay the bond amount on your warrant, you will surrender and then the station will release you after processing your information. Remember to bring enough cash to cover your bond (some stations will not accept checks or credit cards) or bring a bondsman with you to the police station.

If you cannot pay your bond, the station will book you and then place you in jail until a judge can see you. The booking process usually takes several hours.

When surrendering to the police, make sure that a friend or family member is aware of your plan. That way, he or she can wait by the phone to assist you or pick you up from the station after your release. It is also a good idea to wear comfortable clothing.

By choosing the time and place of your surrender, you may also prevent further criminal charges, such as a charge for resisting arrest.

If there is a warrant for your arrest, officers will catch you. It is only a matter of time. In today’s highly-connected world, you can be arrested while at the DMV, while traveling at an airport, even during a simple traffic stop.

Contact Goldman Wetzel today for help deciding if you should turn yourself in: 727-828-3900.