How to Handle a Bench Warrant in Philadelphia Courts

Whether you missed a court date, violated probation, or failed to pay a fine, the most important thing you can do is act quickly. Here's how bench warrants work in Philadelphia, what to expect, and how a criminal defense attorney can help resolve the matter—often without you being taken into custody.

What Is a Bench Warrant in Pennsylvania?

A bench warrant is a court order issued by a judge—usually when someone:

• Fails to appear in court for a scheduled hearing

• Violates the conditions of bail or probation

• Ignores a subpoena or court order

• Misses a preliminary arraignment (common in summary offenses)

• Fails to pay court fines or fees

The term “bench” comes from the fact that the judge issues the warrant from the bench, not at the request of police.

What Happens When a Bench Warrant Is Issued?

Once a warrant is active:

• Police can arrest you at any time—during a traffic stop, at home, or at work

• You may be held in jail until a hearing is scheduled

• You may lose the right to bail or have higher bail set

• It can negatively impact your case and future sentencing

In Philadelphia, bench warrants are entered into a statewide system, meaning they won’t just go away—even if the original issue was minor.

Can I Be Arrested for a Bench Warrant Without Notice?

Yes. There is no requirement that the court notify you before issuing a bench warrant. Often, people don’t find out until they:

• Receive a letter or phone call from the court

• Are denied a driver’s license renewal

• Are stopped by police for an unrelated issue

• Look up their case online or call the court clerk

If you suspect a warrant has been issued, don’t wait to be arrested. Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately.

How to Resolve a Bench Warrant in Philadelphia

The most effective way to resolve a bench warrant is through voluntary surrender, ideally with a defense lawyer by your side. This shows the court that:

✅ You’re not a flight risk
✅ You’re taking responsibility
✅ You deserve leniency in how the warrant is handled

Depending on the situation, your attorney may be able to:

• Schedule a "turn-in hearing"

• File a motion to quash the warrant

• Resolve the underlying issue (e.g., unpaid fine or missed appearance)

• Appear in court on your behalf, if the warrant is for a minor issue

• Negotiate bail or ROR (release on recognizance) to avoid jail

In many cases, the judge will lift the warrant and reset the court date, especially for first-time violations or minor offenses.

What If the Bench Warrant Is From Probation or a Previous Case?

Bench warrants issued for violations of probation or parole are more serious. You may also have a detainer, which means you could be held without bail until a hearing.

However, your lawyer can still:

✅ Request a detainer hearing
✅ Argue for bail reinstatement
✅ Present mitigating evidence, such as work history, family support, or compliance
✅ Negotiate with the probation officer or district attorney before the hearing

Prompt legal action can often reduce your time in custody—or avoid jail altogether.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Bench Warrant

Ignoring a warrant can lead to:

• Immediate arrest

• Loss of bail privileges

• Harsher penalties in your underlying case

• Additional criminal charges (e.g., bail jumping)

Even a minor issue can snowball into a major legal problem if you don’t respond.

📞 Contact Mark D. Hauser, Criminal Defense Attorney, Today

If you’re facing a bench warrant in Philadelphia, don’t wait to be arrested. With over 30 years of experience helping clients resolve warrants quickly and favorably, Mark D. Hauser can guide you through the process, protect your rights, and help you avoid unnecessary jail time.

📞 Contact Mark D. Hauser, criminal defense attorney, today for a confidential case evaluation.