Criminal Defense Lawyers

NYC Bench Warrants Lawyers – NYC Arrest Warrants Lawyers

When an individual fails to appear in court for a criminal appearance, he or she could face significant consequences. Some of these include a bench warrant that was issued for an arrest, a criminal charge of bail jumping, failure to respond to an appearance ticket, as well as losing any funds that were posted during bail for the initial offense.

In New York, there is a 30 day grace period before a bench warrant is set forth for the defendant. The purpose of a bench warrant is to have a police officer arrest the defendant. Those who are taken into custody for a bench warrant, which was issued due to failure to appear in court, will typically be kept at the police station until the court schedules a hearing.

What is Failure to Respond to an Appearance Ticket?
If a police officer arrests an individual for an offense that is a non-felony, the law enforcement official can serve the individual with an appearance ticket, which means the individual won’t go to jail. This ticket will direct an individual on when to appear in court. In addition, a police officer can also request that an individual post bail. When an individual fails to show up in court as directed by an appearance ticket, the court has the authority to issue a bench warrant for his or her arrest. Failing to comply with an appearance ticket is an offense that is considered a violation in New York. Violations and misdemeanors are similar to each other, as they are both a non-felony offense (aside from a traffic violation). If convicted of this offense, an individual could face up to 15 days in jail as stated in New York Penal Law, Article 215.

What are the criminal Offenses Related to Bail Jumping?
An individual who is arrested and officially charged with a criminal offense and posts a bond is required by law to appear in court as directed. These dates could include an arraignment, hearing, trial, and sentencing. If a defendant does not appear for a scheduled court appearance, the court may issue a bench warrant for the offense of bail jumping. Bail jumping charges can be in the first, second, or third degree.

Bail jumping in the first degree is a crime that involves an individual who fails to appear at a court date for a Class A or Class B felony. These crimes may include murder, rape, assault with a deadly weapon, robbery, terrorism, kidnapping, bribery, drug trafficking, and more. The penalties for this offense could result in a maximum prison sentence of up to seven years as well as a $5,000 fine as stated in New York Penal Law 215,

Bail jumping in the second degree involves an individual who fails to appear at a court date that is for a pending felony. This is a Class E felony, which is punishable with a maximum prison sentence of four years and a maximum fine of $5,000.

Bail jumping in the third degree is when an individual fails to appear at a court date for a criminal action, which may include misdemeanors and violations. This is a Class A misdemeanor that can result in a maximum prison sentence of one year, three years of probation, or a maximum fine of $1,000.

What are Defenses to Bail Jumping and Failure to Appear?
An individual who is charged with bail jumping or failure to comply with an appearance ticket has a valid defense when he or she could not appear due to unavoidable circumstances that were beyond their control. However, an individual must prove that his or her failure to comply with an appearance ticket was valid within 30 days of the scheduled court date the individual missed. Some reasonable defenses that are valid defenses may include a car accident, hospitalization, or the defendant’s vehicle broke down on the way to court. In addition, if an individual is incarcerated in another jail or isn’t provided with adequate information about his or her scheduled court date, it could be used as a valid defense.

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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If you are arrested due to a bench warrant, which involves a failure to appear charge, the police have the authority to take the accused into custody at any given time or place, which could include work, social events, or place of residence.

Due to the 30 day grace period in New York that concerns failure to appear, it is vital to address the situation as soon as possible. If you discover that you have missed a court date, you should contact a skilled criminal defense attorney immediately. A New York criminal defense attorney can advise you on which is the best course of action to take, and he or she understands how to develop a strong case that will significantly increase the chances of a positive outcome.