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Out-of-County Warrants in Florida: What Do You Need to Know?

Feb. 6, 2021

Have you or a loved one been issued an out-of-county warrant? Being issues a warrant of arrest is one of the most disheartening experiences one can ever go through, and even more so, if you’ve received it wrongfully. If you have questions about out-of-county warrants in Florida, you've come to the right place.

Out-of-County Warrants: At A Glance

An out-of-the-county warrant is a type of arrest warrant given to people who are currently in another county other than the district where they allegedly committed the crime. It’s issued for a range of causes ranging from routine traffic violations to felonies (e.g., rape, murder).

Upon receipt of the document, the defendants can expect to be arrested and booked in the jail. Depending on the nature of the case and severity of the crime, the defendants may also be given an option to post a bond, pay a fine, or pay bail.

Commonly Asked Questions About Out-of-County Warrants

Yes, getting an out-of-county warrant could be panic-inducing, and it will surely trigger your flight or fight response. But always choose to act logically. Remember that many defendants actually realized that they could have avoided a lot of hassle, stress, and expenses had they resolved the warrant in a more graceful fashion.

What Should You Avoid when You Get an Out-Of-County Warrant?

If you’re recently issued with an out-of-the-county warrant, avoid doing the following:

  • Take it for granted. Ignoring it won’t make it go away. Your case could even escalate and you could be fined more if you don’t face the situation properly. Contact a skilled attorney immediately to help you handle the case.

  • Don’t turn yourself in without consulting with an attorney. A lawyer can guide you on the best move to take.

  • Don’t travel, be it domestically or internally. This will make you look like you’re running away.

  • Don’t hide at your loved ones’ house as this will make them face the consequence of “harboring a fugitive”.

  • Don’t resist the arrest. Even if you’re wrongfully arrested, don’t use provocative or abusive language against the police officers.

Remember, resistance will give the plaintiff even more reasons to make a stronger case against you.

What Should You Do when You Receive the Warrant?

When you receive the warrant, the following should be your first moves:

  • Look for a reputable attorney. Don’t make any statements or sign any documents without an expert’s guidance because your words may be used against you.

  • Take advantage of warranty checks. This helps you know the exact reason you’re given an out-of-the-county warrant. And the info you get from the check could help your attorney defend you at court more effectively.

  • Know your rights.

What Are Your Rights?

Yes, the police and the asylum county might have responsibilities as they take you into custody. They may impose restrictions on your usage of communication channels. They may also take your photograph or fingerprint.

However, you also have rights as a defendant whether you’re innocent or guilty. These are the following:

  • Access to a lawyer. As your number of calls is limited, you may get in touch with another person to find an attorney who can help you. You may also ask the judge to postpone the court hearings to give you reasonable time to find a legal counsel.

  • Talk to a lawyer first before taking a lie detector test. No one can force you to take a lie detector test.

  • Get out of jail on a conditional release agreement or bail. Unless your case is non-bailable (e.g., murder, kidnapping, rape), you can pay bail or contact a bondsman to help you fund the bail amount.

  • Say no to signing any legal paperwork or make a confession. Always consult your lawyer first before signing documents.

  • Be treated with respect. Even if the defendants are truly found guilty, they’re still to be treated humanely. There shouldn’t be any use of force or threat against the arrested individual.

Can You Get a Bond?

The option to post a bond depends on the nature and severity of the case. Also, it’s the demanding state, not the asylum state, that can authorize defendants to post bail.

Warrants could be bailable or non-bailable, and this is determined by the judge. Terrorism, as well as repeated murder and rape cases are some of the examples of non-bailable crimes.

How Long Can They Hold You?

The asylum district can hold the defendant in custody for 1 month or more until the demanding county carries out the extradition process.

How Long Is the Transport Process?

The extradition or transport process usually takes at least 30 days. But the court may also impose an additional 60 days. The detainee may also be released if the 30-day detention limit is violated. However, the release doesn’t mean the outstanding warrant is no longer valid.

Receiving an out-of-county warrant can be a life-changing moment. The first move you should take is to speak to an attorney. If you’re in Florida, you can rely on Attorney Tom McGuire and the team at Panhandle Defense Firm to help you get through the situation. Contact us today for help getting your out-of-county warrant resolved.

Sources

  1. https://criminaldefenseattorneytampa.com/warrant-for-arrest/out-of-county/

  2. https://rodneyokcbailbonds.com/dos-and-donts-when-you-have-a-warrant/

  3. https://defensehelp.com/solutions-defenses-criminal-charge/will-the-state-of-florida-extradite-me/

  4. https://www.richardhornsby.com/criminal/procedure/warrants/

  5. https://www.richardhornsby.com/criminal/procedure/warrants/extradition.html

  6. https://www.osbar.org/public/legalinfo/1077_ArrestRights.htm