How Do I Check if I Have an Open Warrant in New York City?

Dealing with a potential warrant can be scary. You may be worried about getting arrested or what could happen if police pull you over. This guide covers different ways to check if you have an active warrant in New York City.

Checking Online for a Warrant

One of the easiest ways to check for a warrant is using an online lookup tool. New York City provides a free warrant search database through the City Marshals. To use it:

Go to the NYC Marshals website
Click on the name of your borough – Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, Staten Island or Bronx
This takes you to the page for your borough’s Marshal office
Scroll down and look for the "Warrant Search" section
Type in your first and last name
Select whether you are searching for a criminal or civil warrant
Hit "Search"

If any active warrants come up, they will be displayed along with additional information like the docket number and type of warrant. This database includes both criminal warrants and civil warrants, like those for unpaid debts. It's updated frequently to show open warrants from all five boroughs.

Contacting the NYPD Warrant Squad

Rather than searching online, you can also call the NYPD Warrant Squad directly. The number is 212-694-5870.When you call, be prepared to give them:

Your full legal name
Date of birth
Last known address

Let them know you are checking to see if any warrants are associated with your identity in New York City. The Warrant Squad can search not just NYPD databases but also systems used by the courts and other agencies. They will be able to tell you over the phone if your name and details are linked to an active warrant.

Getting a Copy of Your Rap Sheet

Your "rap sheet" is your official criminal record with New York State. This detailed report will list any open warrants connected to you along with your full history of charges, convictions, and arrests. To get a copy of your New York rap sheet:

Complete the NYS Request for Criminal History Record Search form
Get it notarized
Mail it to NYS Division of Criminal Justice Services with payment
They will mail you an official copy of your rap sheet

It can take up to 2 months to get your records. Carefully review your rap sheet once you receive it to check for any active warrants. Their presence on your official criminal record is definitive proof that you have an open case.

Using Online Services

There are also some private online services that let you search for warrants specifically. These include sites like:

While they charge a fee to run a search, their databases are frequently updated. So they can provide reliable information on whether you have an active warrant in the state. Some of these sites also do background checks. So they may turn up additional helpful information related to your criminal record and warrant status beyond what a basic search would show.

Working with a Criminal Defense Lawyer

If a warrant does show up through any search method, don't panic. The next step is talking to a criminal defense attorney. An experienced NYC defense lawyer has tools to perform comprehensive warrant checks through official channels. They can access information that public searches won't show. They can also begin working on your case, to get the warrant recalled or removed. Having an attorney allows you to turn yourself in on your own terms, when you are prepared. Some options a defense lawyer may pursue include:

Negotiating with the DA to withdraw the warrant
Posting bail so you don't have to be taken into custody
Appealing to the judge to vacate the warrant
Helping you prepare your defense against the charges

Understanding the Consequences

Try not to stress too much while waiting to hear back on possible warrants. Unless it is very serious, having a warrant does not necessarily mean you will get arrested right away. If a warrant does exist, taking proactive steps is wise. But in many cases, you may be able to recall or resolve the warrant without major legal consequences. An attorney can advise on the best course based on factors like:

Type of charges the warrant is for
Which agency issued it
Your past criminal history
If you missed a court date or violated probation
How long the warrant has been active

Getting some clarity on your situation can help you breathe easier. And give you a plan to move forward.

Recap: How to Check for an Open Warrant in NYC

As you can see, there are several options for investigating whether you have an active warrant in New York City:

Check online warrant search databases
Call the NYPD Warrant Squad
Obtain your NYS rap sheet
Use private background check services
Consult with a criminal defense lawyer

Following up is important anytime you have reason to believe an outstanding warrant exists. An open communication policy with legal authorities demonstrates responsibility. It can also help lead to a more positive case resolution overall.

How Do I Check if I Have an Open Warrant in New York City?