How Do Felony Arrest Warrants Work?

When someone commits a crime, but was not arrested in the course of actually committing it, courts may issue arrest warrants giving police officers the necessary authority to charge the suspect with a crime and make the arrest. A felony arrest warrant is the specific type of warrant issued in a crime classified as a felony.

Before judges issue felony warrants, law enforcement officers must demonstrate that there is some probable cause that you committed a crime, and that there is at least a reasonable level of suspicion you were the person who committed it. There is no expiration date on a felony warrant. They could remain in effect for decades until police are able to find the suspect, until the court revokes the warrant or if the suspect decides to surrender. Felony warrants may be served in any jurisdiction. If served in another state, the issuing state must go through the process of requesting extradition.

If you believe there is a warrant out for your arrest, get in touch with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights. For the dependable legal guidance you need during this time, contact David R. Eshelman in Reading, Pennsylvania.