Massachusetts Warrant Attorney – How to Clear Your Default Warrant
If you missed a court date in Massachusetts, the court likely issued a default warrant for your arrest. An active warrant can lead to serious consequences, including arrest at any time, additional criminal charges, and complications with employment and travel. Working with an experienced Massachusetts warrant removal attorney, like Patrick Donovan, can help you clear your warrant and resolve your case efficiently.
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What is a Default Warrant in Massachusetts?
A default warrant is issued when someone fails to appear in court as required. This applies to criminal cases, probation violations, and even some civil matters where court attendance is mandatory. Once issued, law enforcement has the authority to arrest you on sight.
Common reasons a default warrant is issued include:
- Missing an arraignment
- Failing to appear for a pretrial hearing
- Not attending a probation violation hearing
- Ignoring a summons to court
Even if the missed court date was an accident or due to unforeseen circumstances, the warrant remains active until formally cleared.
Consequences of an Active Arrest Warrant
Having an outstanding default warrant can affect multiple aspects of your life. Some of the most immediate consequences include:
1. Immediate Arrest
- If pulled over for a traffic violation, police can arrest you on the spot.
- Officers may come to your home or workplace to take you into custody.
2. Bail and Additional Penalties
- Judges often impose higher bail amounts for those who have defaulted.
- Some cases result in bail revocation or additional conditions of release.
3. License Suspension
- The Massachusetts RMV can suspend your driver’s license for failing to appear in court.
- This can lead to further penalties if you are caught driving with a suspended license.
4. Employment and Background Checks
- Warrants appear on criminal background checks, which may impact job opportunities.
- Some employers conduct periodic background screenings, leading to job termination if a warrant is discovered.
5. Travel Restrictions
- If your name is flagged in the system, you may be detained at the airport.
- Travel to certain states or countries may be restricted.
How to Remove a Default Warrant in Massachusetts
Contact a Massachusetts Warrant Removal Attorney
An experienced criminal defense attorney like Patrick Donovan can petition the court to remove the warrant. In some cases, an attorney can appear on your behalf, preventing you from being taken into custody.
Appear in Court
In most cases, you must appear in person to address the missed court date. Depending on the circumstances, your attorney may be able to resolve the issue without you appearing.
Explain the Missed Court Date
Judges are more likely to remove a warrant if there is a valid reason for missing court, such as:
- Medical emergencies
- Lack of proper notice
- Transportation issues
- Miscommunication with legal counsel
Comply with Court Conditions
If the judge lifts your warrant, you may need to meet certain conditions, such as:
- Paying outstanding fines or court fees
- Checking in with probation officers
- Attending all future court dates
Why You Need a Massachusetts Warrant Removal Attorney
Navigating the legal system alone can be overwhelming. Hiring an experienced Massachusetts criminal defense attorney provides several benefits:
- Faster Resolution: Attorneys know the legal process and can expedite warrant removal.
- Reduced Risk of Arrest: A lawyer can negotiate on your behalf, preventing unnecessary detention.
- Better Case Outcomes: Skilled attorneys argue for leniency, helping you avoid additional penalties.
Patrick Donovan, a former prosecutor, has helped clients across Massachusetts successfully remove their default warrants.
Recent Case Win: Default Warrant Removed
One client had an outstanding warrant for missing a probation hearing. They were at risk of being arrested at work. Attorney Patrick Donovan filed a motion to remove the warrant and successfully argued that the client had not received proper notice. The judge lifted the warrant, and the client avoided arrest and further penalties. Read more about successful case outcomes.
FAQs About Default Warrants in Massachusetts
Can I Be Arrested at Home for a Default Warrant?
Yes. Police have the authority to arrest you at home, work, or in public if you have an active warrant.
How Long Does It Take to Remove a Warrant?
It depends on the court’s schedule, but with an attorney, the process can often be expedited.
Will My License Be Reinstated If My Warrant Is Removed?
If your license was suspended due to a default warrant, the RMV may reinstate it once the warrant is lifted.
Can a Lawyer Handle This Without Me Going to Court?
In some cases, a lawyer can appear on your behalf, but this depends on the charge and the court’s discretion.
What Happens If I Ignore My Warrant?
Ignoring a warrant increases the risk of arrest and can lead to additional criminal charges.
Get Help Removing Your Default Warrant Today
A default warrant can disrupt your life, but you don’t have to face it alone. Massachusetts warrant removal attorney Patrick Donovan has successfully helped clients clear their warrants and move forward.
Contact Attorney Donovan today to discuss your case and take the first step toward resolving your warrant.
