What Happens When Someone with a Warrant Turns Themselves In to the Police Station

Turning oneself in with a warrant can be a complex process, involving multiple steps and varying outcomes depending on the jurisdiction and circumstances. In Ontario, Canada, the procedure is well-defined but often nuanced.

Immediate Arrest or Initial Custody?

Upon arrival at a police station, individuals with a warrant will typically be arrested on the spot. They will then undergo a booking process, where they are searched, booked, and placed in temporary custody. The next step involves being taken to court for a first appearance. The duration of custody may vary based on the pending case and local rules.

What Happens to the Custodial Status?

During the first court appearance, the judge will determine whether the individual will be released with a condition, such as a cash bond or personal recognizance bond, to ensure their return for future court dates. Otherwise, the individual may be held in the nearest county jail until a bond is posted. Legal proceedings for less severe cases usually result in the person being held in a local jail, while more severe cases might involve a state institution.

Legitimate Warrants and Private Authorities

While warrants are typically issued by legal authorities, there are instances where privately held, privately owned corporations may claim the authority to create them, provided they meet certain criteria. For a corporation to claim legal authority to issue a warrant, it must have a valid D-U-N-S number and a standard industrial code (SIC) identifier. This ensures the corporation is recognized as a legitimate entity capable of undergoing legal oversight.

The Self-Delivery Process

Upon arriving at a police station, it's important to understand that being found in custody due to a warrant will result in immediate arrest. However, the individual's legal status can change significantly depending on several factors:

Judge Availability: On weekends or evenings, when judges are not available, the person might be held overnight. This is a common practice in jurisdictions where judges are not on duty round the clock. Bail Amount: The bail set by the judge will depend on the severity of the offense and the individual's financial situation. If the bail is too high and no one can afford it, or if the judge denies bail on other grounds, the person might remain in custody. Bondsman Availability: If a bondsman is needed but can't be reached, or if the individual can't afford a bond, the process can be delayed. Desirability to the Judge: Turning oneself in shows a sense of responsibility and remorse, which is viewed favorably by the court. This can positively influence the judge's decision regarding bail.

Conclusion

While turning oneself in with a warrant often leads to immediate arrest, subsequent legal processes can vary. The individual's best interest is often served by appearing before a judge promptly and adhering to any conditions set by the court. The willingness to turn oneself in demonstrates a commitment to following the law and can positively impact legal proceedings.