If I have an 11 year old warrant that I would like to try to get cleared up, what is the best way to approach the court to work out a resolution?
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If I have an 11 year old warrant that I would like to try to get cleared up, what is the best way to approach the court to work out a resolution?
I plead guilty to a misdemeanor charge of frequenting a place where drugs are known to be used or sold and possesion of paraphernalia. I was sentenced to 28 days in jail but never reported to jail, as I was residing in another state at the time. It’s not been an issue but I would like to try and work out a mutually fair resolution with the court to get this warrant resolved. I am still living in another state, have a job and a good life here. I really don’t want to give this all up to do 28 days in jail in a state that is 400 miles away on a charge that is 11 years old, however I also would like to get it cleared up with courts. What would ypu recommend I do to try and get this resolved?
Asked on March 22, 2018 under Criminal Law, Washington
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 6 years ago | Contributor
First of all, you will need to travel back to the state that the warrant was issued in and appear personally in front of a judge. Since warrants don't expire, you can be picked up on this at anytime, even for something as simple as being stopped for a speeding ticket. So you are wise in your decision to take care of this situation ASAP; it is far better to appear in court voluntarily as oppossed to courtesy of the jail bus. At this point, you should consult directly with a criminal law attorney who practices in the jurisdiction in question; they can best advise you further and possibly use their local court contacts to your best advantage.
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