Checking for, and clearing, a warrant
Warrants don’t go away on their own. A bench warrant is usually for missing court or unpaid fines; an arrest warrant means police believe you committed a crime. Check through the county court or sheriff’s online search, call the clerk, or have a lawyer check. Talk to a lawyer before going in; they may get it recalled, set a new date or arrange a planned surrender. Courts don’t call demanding gift cards or wires to clear warrants; those calls are scams.
Your checklist
- Warrants don’t go away on their own
- Know bench vs arrest warrants
- Check online or with the clerk
- Talk to a lawyer first
- Ask about recall or a new date
- Hang up on warrant scam calls
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Don’t ignore it
Warrants usually stay active until resolved, and can surface during a traffic stop, travel or a background check.
Common types
- Bench warrant: issued by a judge, often for missing a court date or not paying fines or child support.
- Arrest warrant: issued when police or prosecutors show a judge probable cause that you committed a crime.
How to check
- County court or sheriff websites often have online case or warrant searches.
- Call the clerk of court for the county where the case would be.
- Ask a lawyer to check quietly for you.
Talk to a lawyer first
A lawyer or public defender may be able to ask the judge to recall the warrant, set a new court date, or arrange a voluntary surrender with a bail plan, which often goes better than being picked up.
Clearing bench warrants
Many courts let you clear a bench warrant by appearing in court or at walk-in hours, paying or arranging a payment plan for fines, or having the warrant recalled. Procedures vary by court.
Scam calls
Callers claiming to be a sheriff or court officer who demand payment by gift card, wire or crypto to cancel a warrant are scammers. Hang up and call the court directly.
Official sources, and where to look
- USA.gov: courts and legal helpusa.gov
- FTC consumer advice: government impersonation scamsconsumer.ftc.gov
- Legal Services Corporation: free legal aidlsc.gov
[your county] clerk of court case search[your county] public defender
Common questions
Can I be arrested for a bench warrant over a traffic ticket?
Yes, in many places. Clearing it quickly, often with a lawyer or at the court, is the best way to avoid that. More ›
Do warrants expire?
Usually not. Most remain active until the court resolves them. More ›
How do I find out if I have a warrant?
Check the county court or sheriff’s online search, call the clerk of court, or ask a lawyer to check for you. More ›
What is a bench warrant?
A warrant issued by a judge, often because someone missed a court date or didn’t pay fines. More ›
How do I clear a bench warrant?
Often by appearing in court, paying or arranging to pay fines, or having a lawyer ask the judge to recall it. Procedures vary by court. More ›
Should I turn myself in on a warrant?
Talk to a lawyer first. They can often arrange a planned surrender or recall that goes more smoothly. More ›
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Not yet reviewed by an expert. Last checked 2026-10-29. This is general help, not legal, medical or professional advice. Rules are different in every state.