Many ask about the length of jailtime for a bench warrant. In Oklahoma, a bench warrant is issued when you fail to appear in court or comply with court orders. This gives law enforcement the authority to arrest you and bring you before the court. The length of jail time resulting from a bench warrant depends on the reason the warrant was issued. It also depends on the severity of the underlying offense, and whether you are charged with additional crimes.
Bench Warrants for Misdemeanor Offenses
If the bench warrant stems from a misdemeanor charge, your jail time is typically shorter. Misdemeanor offenses in Oklahoma usually carry up to one year in county jail, however, the judge can impose jail time related to both the original charge and the failure to appear. For example, if you missed a court date related to a misdemeanor charge, the court can hold you in jail until your next court appearance or for a specified period.
Bench Warrants for Felony Offenses
If the bench warrant is for a felony charge, the jail time can be more severe. Felony offenses can result in much longer sentences, depending on the original charge. In some cases, you may face multiple years in state prison if convicted of the underlying felony. The judge may also impose additional penalties for failing to appear, such as contempt of court, which could increase jailtime.
Other Common Causes
Failing to comply with court orders, such as missing a court date, may lead to a contempt of court charge. In Oklahoma, a contempt of court conviction can result in up to six months in jail and fines. This jail time can be in addition to any sentence from the underlying charge.
If the bench warrant is related to unpaid fines or child support, the court can hold you in jail until you pay or arrange a payment plan. In these situations, the length of jail time varies, but courts generally seek compliance rather than lengthy incarceration.
Bench Warrants For Traffic Tickets
Its not uncommon for a person to forget to pay a fine or appear in court for a traffic ticket. Although it seems like a small thing the court will issues a bench warrant in traffic ticket cases. In this case the warrant is either issued by the district court if the appearance was supposed to be in their court. Otherwise, like in the case of city of Tulsa traffic tickets, the warrant needs to be handled in the Municipal court in downtown Tulsa.
Bench Warrant Lawyers You Can Count On
Jailtime for a bench warrant in Oklahoma depends on the underlying offense and the reason for the warrant. Misdemeanor charges usually result in shorter jail time, while felony charges can lead to extended incarceration. Failing to appear can also lead to additional penalties, such as contempt of court, adding to your potential jail time. Consulting with an attorney can help you address the bench warrant and minimize the consequences.
If you’re facing jailtime from a bench warrant, call our team at Tulsa Criminal Lawyers Law Firm at (918) 416-0358 or contact us online.