Outstanding Warrants FAQ

Boston Criminal Defense Attorney with Extensive Experience Convincing Judges to Lift Default Warrants

Learning that there’s a warrant out for your arrest can be stressful—and not knowing how or when it might catch up with you makes it worse. Whether your warrant stems from a missed court date, a pending criminal investigation, or an old charge you thought was behind you, it’s something you need to deal with head-on. The Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy regularly helps clients resolve outstanding warrants throughout the Boston area. With over 27 years of experience, Attorney Murphy understands how Massachusetts courts issue and enforce warrants and how to help you address them with minimal disruption to your life.

What are the different types of warrants in Massachusetts?

The two main types are default warrants and straight warrants. A default warrant is issued when someone fails to appear in court. A straight warrant is issued when law enforcement or a prosecutor requests your arrest as part of a new or ongoing criminal investigation.

Will I be arrested immediately if I have a warrant?

It’s possible. Police can arrest you during a traffic stop, at home, at work, or even in court on an unrelated matter. However, in many cases, your lawyer can file a motion to remove the warrant and schedule a court appearance—sometimes avoiding arrest altogether.

How do I know if I have a warrant in Boston?

You can contact the court where the case originated, but it’s best to have an attorney check for you. If you call the police or the court yourself, you may risk immediate arrest, depending on the circumstances.

Can I travel or renew my license if I have an outstanding warrant?

Probably not. An active warrant can prevent you from renewing your driver’s license or passport. If the warrant is for a criminal matter, the Registry of Motor Vehicles may suspend your license until the issue is resolved.

What if I live out of state but have a Massachusetts warrant?

Warrants issued in Massachusetts don’t go away just because you move. If the charge is serious enough, you could be extradited. Even if that’s unlikely, the warrant can still affect your job, your travel, and your background checks. Depending on the situation, a Massachusetts criminal defense attorney may be able to appear on your behalf or resolve the warrant without requiring you to return in person.

Is it possible to clear a warrant without going to jail?

Yes, in many cases. If the underlying offense was non-violent or a first-time issue, your lawyer may be able to appear in court with you—or sometimes without you—to have the warrant recalled. Judges are often more willing to work with people who come forward voluntarily through counsel, as it shows they are taking a proactive approach to resolve the situation.

Can I be held without bail if I turn myself in on an outstanding warrant?

It depends on the nature of the original charge and your criminal history. In many cases, the court will set bail or release you on your own recognizance if your lawyer presents a solid case for why you appeared voluntarily and are not a flight risk.

How long does a warrant stay active?

Indefinitely. Once issued, a warrant stays in effect until it’s resolved in court. There’s no expiration date, and you can be arrested at any time unless a judge officially removes it.

Does having an outstanding warrant mean I’ll be convicted of the underlying charge?

No. A warrant just means that the court wants you to appear. You still have the right to defend yourself against the original charge. In many cases, resolving the warrant is the first step toward negotiating a dismissal or reduction.

How can the Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy help with an outstanding warrant?

Attorney Murphy can quickly determine whether an outstanding warrant exists, file a motion to recall it, and represent you in court to resolve the issue with minimal disruption to your life. In many cases, he’s able to keep clients from being arrested or detained. With decades of experience in Boston-area courts, he knows how to approach each situation strategically and will provide you with support throughout the process.  If you believe there’s a warrant out for you—or you know there is—now is the time to act. Call the Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy at (617) 367-0450 and get help resolving it on your terms.