Can you pay off a warrant without going to jail in Pennsylvania? It’s a question many residents ask our team of bond agents. It’s also one that requires a definitive answer, or else you risk losing everything.
Continue reading what Szar Bail Bonds has to say and hire us for 24-hour solutions.
Who Must Pay Off a Warrant?
Anyone who watches crime dramas long enough knows that a warrant means someone is going to be arrested. However, it isn’t as straightforward as Hollywood makes it seem. There are several different types of warrants and each one is specific to a particular role. Some allow your property to be searched, while others approve an inmate for execution.
You can find dozens of individual warrant issues depending on local laws and processes. A few of the most common types of orders include such items as:
- Arrest Warrants
- Bench Warrants
- Execution Warrants
- Scofflaw Warrants
- Search Warrants
- Traffic Warrants
In any case, those who have a warrant issued for their arrest must pay fines. This is often handled in person at your local court.
When Do I Go to Jail Over a Warrant?
If you have a warrant issued, you likely failed to appear for court. When you skip your court date, a bench warrant is usually administered to bring you forward. At this point, you will be arrested by the police for skipping your date. Also, should you be arrested again, the judge will see that you failed to appear once before.
Once you do appear before a judge, they aren’t going to be happy that you tried to escape. They will also likely issue harsher sentencing than they would have previously, thinking you might be dangerous. You will usually go to jail regardless of the warrant issued. The best way to avoid having one is to comply with the courts fully.
Can You Pay Off A Warrant Without Going to Jail in Pennsylvania?
Back to our main topic; Can you pay off a warrant without going to jail in Pennsylvania? The short answer is it likely depends on the circumstances of the case. Let’s say you got busted for something minor, such as loitering outside of a store. Chances are, the judge could try the case without you being present.
They could also issue a warrant for your failure to appear, or judges could issue a guilty verdict, then call for your arrest. Another option is that they hold you in contempt of court, which still puts you in jail. You are going to need to appear before a judge eventually to pay off fines.
How to Avoid Receiving Arrest Warrants
At this point, the suggestion to not break the law isn’t a helpful one. Instead, it’s better to comply with any orders you may receive. A warrant does not prove you are guilty, it simply states that they have arrest requirements to meet.
During trials, things can very well lead to proving your innocence. However, running is not something that the court will see as an act of innocence. Even if you were unaware that warrants existed, it’s best to follow along with appearing in court. If the court were in the wrong, they would usually dismiss all charges and fines. However, if you are held in contempt, the case becomes an uphill battle.
Can I Be Released After Paying My Warrant?
Unfortunately, having a warrant is not something that just goes away. It’s also highly likely that it isn’t the only fines you have incurred. Even if you are only a witness to a crime, ignoring a subpoena is illegal. If your arrest weren’t the start of your troubles, it would be now.
Your best bet is turning yourself in or at least speaking with a lawyer. They could possibly negotiate terms that can keep you out of handcuffs.
If you find yourself in need of a bail bond to get you out of jail, make sure you contact Szar Bail Bonds to help you with posting your bail.
