Melvin L. Hill Understands the Arrest Process
Learn how police get a warrant for your arrest in this month’s blog from Melvin L. Hill Attorney at Law at Roanoke, VA. When you’re the subject of an arrest warrant, it can be a challenging time for anyone. Police officers must follow a process before getting the warrant. If you’re facing criminal charges in and around Roanoke, VA, call Attorney Hill to represent you. Let’s take a look at the steps they must follow before a police officer can get an arrest warrant.
The Police Must Establish Probable Cause
Before law enforcement can obtain an arrest warrant, it must establish probable cause for the alleged crime. The police must establish you are the individual responsible for the offense. The affidavit is a written statement provided under oath. The affidavit outlines the facts and circumstances surrounding the alleged crime, supporting the request for an arrest warrant.
Warrants Are Subject to Judicial Review
After the preparation of the affidavit, police officers or prosecutors present it to a judge or magistrate for review. The judge evaluates the information in the affidavit to determine if there is sufficient probable cause to issue an arrest warrant. This judicial review ensures that the arrest warrant has credible evidence and protects individuals from unwarranted arrests.
Failing to Appear in Court Draws an Arrest Warrant
In some cases, police may not need to obtain a traditional arrest warrant from a judge. Instead, they can secure a bench warrant. Bench warrants are for individuals who fail to appear in court, violate probation, or disobey a court order. The judge can issue a bench warrant on the spot, authorizing law enforcement to arrest the person and bring them before the court.
Police Officers Have the Power to Arrest Once They Get the Warrant
When a judge issues an arrest warrant, law enforcement officers have the legal authority to make an arrest. The police may execute the arrest at any time and at any location. This could include the individual’s home, place of work, or even during a routine traffic stop. When you are facing charges, Melvin L. Hill, Attorney at Law is who you need in your corner in court.
For more on criminal defense matters, call Melvin L. Hill Attorney at Law at (540) 342-1851. Follow our blog for more quality information. We are happy to explain more about how police get a warrant for your arrest.
