Florida Bench Warrants Explained

The bench warrant. It’s the legal equivalent of a ghost that haunts you indefinitely, waiting to pounce when you least expect it. Missed that court date because you thought a traffic ticket was no big deal? Ignored those child support payments hoping they’d vanish into the humid air?

In Florida, the past isn’t just prologue—it’s a promise that the long arm of the law will eventually reach out and tap you on the shoulder. And unlike the ephemeral thrills of a beachside vacation, bench warrants don’t expire. Ever.

What is a Bench Warrant?

A bench warrant is a type of arrest warrant issued directly by a judge, usually when someone fails to appear in court as required or violates conditions of their bail or probation.

• Issued “from the bench” by a judge, not requested by police like a regular arrest warrant
• Authorizes law enforcement to arrest the person and bring them before the court
• Can be issued for both criminal cases and some civil matters like unpaid child support
• Do not expire – they remain active until the person is arrested or the warrant is recalled by a judge

Common Reasons for Bench Warrants in Florida

The most frequent reasons judges issue bench warrants include:

• Failing to appear for a scheduled court date (criminal or traffic cases)
• Violating conditions of probation or parole
• Failing to pay court-ordered fines or fees
• Not paying required child support
• Failing to appear for jury duty when summoned

Even minor traffic infractions can lead to a bench warrant if the person does not attend their court date or pay their ticket on time.

Consequences of Having an Outstanding Bench Warrant

When a bench warrant is issued, the person becomes subject to immediate arrest at any time if encountered by police. Other potential consequences:

• Suspension of driver’s license
• Additional criminal charges for failure to appear
• Difficulty passing background checks for employment or housing
• Ineligibility for some government benefits
• Negatively impacts outcome of the underlying criminal or civil case

How Long Bench Warrants Remain Active

Under Florida law, bench warrants do not expire. They remain active indefinitely until served (the person is arrested) or quashed (cancelled) by a judge. This means a person could have an unknowingly outstanding bench warrant for years or even decades. It will show up anytime law enforcement runs their name. For more details, visit Porter Law.

Resolving a Florida Bench Warrant

The only way to properly resolve a bench warrant is to deal with it head-on by contacting the court, usually with the help of an attorney. Options include:

• Filing a “motion to quash” the warrant, explaining the failure to appear and asking the judge to recall it
• Arranging to voluntarily surrender and appear before the judge to address the issue
• Posting bond if allowed to secure release pending a court date

Ignoring a bench warrant will not make it go away; it will only make the situation worse. The best approach is to be proactive and take responsibility. More information can be found at Florida Ticket Firm.