How can I fix a bench warrant for a traffic ticket in Virginia?

If you have a bench warrant for your arrest in Virginia, there are ways to resolve the issue. If you no longer live in the area where the violation took place, it may be slightly difficult to get your record cleared, but doing so will be worth the effort. You may need to make some phone calls and enlist the help of a lawyer.

Can my Virginia bench warrant lead to my arrest?

A traffic ticket warrant of this nature is not a serious offense compared to other types of warrants, so you are unlikely to be pursued and arrested in your new state. This would be called “extradition,” and it is an expensive procedure usually conducted only for serious crimes.

On the other hand, your warrant will remain on your driving record and will be seen by anyone who checks your background, such as potential landlords and employees. It will also be seen by the DMV of your home state. If you do not have a driver’s license yet in the new state (or if yours expires), you will not be issued a new one with the warrant on your record. You may even lose the one you have if the state in which you got the ticket decides to suspend your license in that state. The DMV in Virginia may call your new state and the suspension will follow you.

Should I call the county court about my bench warrant?

You may be reluctant to call the county court and announce that you have a warrant, and for good reason. Doing this can indeed lead directly to your arrest. But that isn’t a concern you should have in this case. In nearly any situation, you will likely be perfectly safe calling the county court or DMV in which you have the ticket and simply asking for instructions regarding where to pay the rest of the fine in order to clear the warrant.

If you are uncomfortable doing so, a lawyer may do it for you for a very small fee. This places a legal layer between you and the court and gives you some extra protection. But in most situations your best option is to find an address, put a check in the mail, and then check to make sure the warrant is taken off your record afterwards.

Case Studies: Resolving Bench Warrants for Traffic Tickets in Virginia

Case Study 1: Clearing a Bench Warrant for a Traffic Ticket in Virginia

We explore the process of clearing a bench warrant for a traffic ticket in Virginia. The individual in question no longer lives in the area where the violation occurred, making it slightly challenging to address the warrant.

However, by making phone calls and seeking the assistance of a lawyer, they were able to navigate the legal process and clear their record.

Case Study 2: Potential Consequences of a Virginia Bench Warrant

This focuses on the potential consequences of having a bench warrant for a traffic ticket in Virginia. While such warrants are not considered serious offenses compared to other types of warrants, they can have significant implications.

The warrant remains on the individual’s driving record and can be seen by background checkers, including potential landlords and employers. It may also affect the issuance or renewal of a driver’s license.

This delves into the repercussions and considerations surrounding a Virginia bench warrant.

Case Study 3: Seeking Guidance From the County Court

In this case study, we address the question of whether individuals should contact the county court about their bench warrant.

Despite concerns about potential arrest, it is generally safe to call the county court or Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to inquire about resolving the warrant.

Seeking instructions on how to pay the outstanding fine and clear the warrant can be done without putting oneself at risk. Alternatively, hiring a lawyer to handle the communication with the court provides an added layer of protection.

This explores the benefits and best approaches for individuals seeking resolution without unnecessary risk.