Turn Yourself In When Wanted by the Police: Guidance and Strategies

If you are wanted by the police, it is possible to turn yourself in, and it could be the best choice for several reasons. In this detailed guide, we will discuss the process of turning yourself in, the benefits of self-surrender over being caught, and the importance of legal advice before surrendering.

Turning Yourself In Through the Legal Process

If you have an active warrant for your arrest, the authorities have the right to compel you to surrender. However, you can choose to surrender voluntarily and will be taken into custody by law enforcement officers who will ensure you are protected during the process.

Visiting the Court

The first step to take is to visit the court that issued the warrant. Walk into the court and inform the clerk of your intention. A bailiff will then escort you to further instructions. It is important you provide the complete information and the reason behind the warrant to ensure a smooth process.

Prohibited Communication: While the police can give you certain instructions, whether to follow them or not is entirely up to you. It is advisable to seek legal advice before making any decisions to ensure your rights and interests are protected.

The Benefits of Surrendering Voluntarily

Choosing to surrender voluntarily can protect you from potential distress and complications that may arise if you are caught by chance. When authorities find you unexpectedly, it might be on a traffic stop where there could be a demonstration of force. Consequently, words of advice would better come from you reaching out to or hiring an attorney beforehand and securing bail money.

Seeking Legal Advice

Having an attorney represent you before surrendering is highly recommended. They can help you understand the legal implications and prepare you for any challenges that might arise. Additionally, they can guide you on the proper procedures to follow, minimizing the risks and ensuring your rights are safeguarded.

Furthermore, hiring an attorney can help you demonstrate responsibility and non-flightiness, which are crucial factors in determining whether you would be granted bail. This can also positively influence the sentencing if you are found guilty, as being a responsible individual shows a willingness to face the consequences of your actions.

Another benefit of surrendering is that it shows you are cooperative, which can be seen favorably by the court. This cooperative mindset can lead to more sympathetic treatment and potentially lighter sentences.

Turning Yourself In at the Sheriff's Department

Turning yourself in at the sheriff's department is another option. When you visit the sheriff's office, ensure you understand the reasons behind the warrant and the presence of a bond. If there is a bond, you can arrange for an attorney or a bail bondsman to walk you through the process. If the warrant is related to probation or parole, keep in mind that there will be no bond and you may face a minimum of 6 months in jail before seeing a judge or parole board.

Conclusion: Turning yourself in when wanted by the police is a crucial step to take. It ensures your safety, minimizes potential distress, and provides an opportunity to demonstrate responsibility and cooperation. For a smoother process, seek legal advice and prepare accordingly to protect your rights and interests.

Keywords:

police warrant extradition legal advice self-surrender

Important Note: This information is provided for general guidance and should not be considered as legal advice. For specific legal issues, consult a professional attorney.