Bench warrants in Denver, like in many other jurisdictions, are legal orders issued by a judge that can have serious consequences for those who ignore them. Unfortunately, there are several misconceptions surrounding bench warrants that can lead people into dangerous situations.

In this blog post, we will debunk some of the common misconceptions about Denver bench warrants and shed light on the realities of these legal issues.

Misconception #1: Bench Warrants Will Simply Go Away

One of the most dangerous misconceptions about bench warrants is the belief that they will eventually disappear if ignored. In reality, bench warrants do not have an expiration date. They remain active until the individual takes appropriate legal actions to resolve them. Failing to address a bench warrant can lead to severe consequences, including arrest and incarceration.

When a bench warrant is issued, it means the court expects you to appear for a specific hearing or take certain actions related to your case. Ignoring this order only worsens your legal situation, making it essential to address the warrant promptly.

Misconception #2: Authorities Won’t Pursue Bench Warrants

Another common misconception is that law enforcement and the courts have more pressing matters to deal with than chasing individuals with bench warrants. This is far from the truth. In Denver, just as in any other jurisdiction, authorities take bench warrants seriously and actively pursue individuals with active warrants.

Denver law enforcement agencies have dedicated units that focus on tracking down individuals with bench warrants. They use various resources and databases to locate and apprehend those who have failed to address their warrants. So, assuming that you won’t be pursued is a grave mistake that can lead to unexpected and often https://www.law.cornell.edu/rules/frcrmp/rule_9inconvenient arrests.

Misconception #3: Bench Warrants Only Apply to Criminal Offenses

Many people wrongly assume that bench warrants are only associated with criminal offenses. While it’s true that some bench warrants are issued in criminal cases, they can also be issued in civil cases. For example, if you fail to appear in court for a civil matter, such as a divorce hearing or a small claims case, a bench warrant may be issued for your arrest.

It’s essential to understand that bench warrants can arise from various legal situations, not just criminal charges. Ignoring a bench warrant in any context can result in serious consequences.

Misconception #4: Paying a Fine Resolves a Bench Warrant

Another common misunderstanding is that paying a fine will automatically resolve a bench warrant. While paying fines is often part of resolving legal issues, it may not be sufficient to address a bench warrant.

Bench warrants are typically issued because you failed to appear in court or failed to comply with court orders, such as completing community service or attending classes.

To clear a bench warrant, you may need to appear in court, follow specific instructions, or address the underlying issues that led to the warrant’s issuance. Simply paying a fine without addressing the warrant itself may not be enough to prevent further legal consequences.

Bench Warrants In Denver

It’s crucial to understand that bench warrants do not go away on their own, and authorities actively pursue individuals with active warrants. These warrants can apply to both criminal and civil cases, and paying fines alone may not be sufficient to resolve them.

If you find yourself facing a bench warrant in Denver, it’s in your best interest to consult with an attorney and take appropriate legal actions to address the warrant promptly. Ignoring the issue can lead to unnecessary stress, arrests, and legal complications that can be avoided with the right approach. Always seek legal guidance to navigate the complexities of bench warrants and protect your rights within the legal system.

About the Author:

Kimberly Diego is a criminal defense attorney in Denver practicing at The Law Office of Kimberly Diego. She obtained her undergraduate degree from Georgetown University and her law degree at the University of Colorado. She was named one of Super Lawyers’ “Rising Stars of 2012 & 2019-2022” and a “Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Colorado” for 2012-2022 by The National Trial Lawyers. Both honors are limited to a small percentage of practicing attorneys in each state.  Additionally, Expertise names her to its lists of the 25 Best Denver DUI Lawyers and 21 Best Denver Criminal Defense Lawyers, both in 2020-2022. Ms. Diego has also been recognized for her work in domestic violence cases.