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An arrest warrant is an official document issued by a judge or legislative body that calls for the apprehension of an individual who is thought to have committed a crime.
Function
Only those charged with a crime may have a warrant issued for their arrest. To be charged with a crime, a district attorney, police officer or alleged victim must sign an affidavit showing probable cause that the person committed the crime.
Significance
If an alleged criminal is thought to be inside a residence, police have limited powers to enter the residence and arrest him.
Function
Police may arrest suspected felons without a warrant, provided they have probable cause that the person committed the crime; however, for most misdemeanors, an arrest warrant is almost always required.
Prevention/Solution
If you suspect there may be an active warrant for your arrest, resolve the matter as quickly as possible. Click on the link under Resource to search court records.
Considerations
If you are named in an active warrant and are intentionally evading arrest, you may not be able to renew your driver's license or obtain a U.S. Passport.
Source:
Resource:
Find Out if You Have an Active Arrest Warrant
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