Connecticut Criminal Lawyer Blog
If you’ve been told there’s a warrant out for your arrest—or even if you just suspect it—it’s natural to feel anxious, overwhelmed, and unsure of your next move. Arrest warrants in Connecticut can result from missed court dates, criminal investigations, or violations of probation. As a Stamford-based criminal defense lawyer, I receive daily calls from people just like you, seeking clear answers.
This blog post answers the 10 most frequently asked questions about arrest warrants in Connecticut, with a focus on what residents in Stamford and Fairfield County should know. Whether you’ve been arrested before or this is your first legal scare, this 3,000-word guide will help you understand your rights and options.
1. What is an arrest warrant in Connecticut?
An arrest warrant is a legal document issued by a judge authorizing law enforcement to take you into custody. In Connecticut, a judge typically signs a warrant after a police officer submits a sworn affidavit establishing probable cause that a crime has been committed.
Example: If you’re under investigation for larceny in Stamford and police believe they have enough evidence, they may request a judge to issue a warrant for your arrest.
2. How do I know if I have an arrest warrant in Connecticut?
You can find out if there’s an active warrant by:
- Contacting the police department (though this can be risky)
- Checking with the Connecticut Judicial Branch’s online case lookup tool for violation of probation warrants and warrants for failure to appear in court. (All other warrants are NOT listed online in Connecticut.)
- Having an attorney call on your behalf
Pro tip: Never call the police about a warrant without first speaking to a lawyer. You could be arrested on the spot.
3. What are common reasons for arrest warrants in CT?
- Failure to appear in court (FTA)
- Probation violations
- Ongoing criminal investigations
- Missed payments or court-ordered conditions
Local insight: In Stamford, FTAs from even minor infractions like a traffic ticket can quickly escalate into an arrest warrant.
4. What should I do if I learn there’s a warrant for my arrest?
Do not ignore it. Contact a Connecticut criminal defense lawyer immediately. Your lawyer can:
- Confirm the warrant’s status
- Contact the court or police
- Arrange a surrender that protects your dignity
- Request bail in advance
Real case: We recently helped a Stamford resident resolve a warrant by arranging for voluntary surrender and arguing for a PTA (promise to appear) instead of a higher bond.
5. Will I go to jail immediately if I have a warrant?
Not necessarily. Depending on the nature of the charges and your history, your lawyer may be able to:
- Negotiate a release on a promise to appear
- Request a bail reduction hearing
- Resolve the warrant without arrest (in rare cases)
6. How long does it take to resolve a warrant in Connecticut?
The timeline for resolving a warrant can vary depending on the type of warrant, the court’s schedule, and how proactive your attorney is. For most misdemeanor warrants, it may take just a few days to:
- Confirm the warrant
- Arrange a court appearance
- Resolve the issue at arraignment
For felony warrants or those involving violations of probation, the process can take longer due to additional court proceedings or pretrial requirements.
Tip: Hiring a local Connecticut defense attorney as soon as possible can significantly reduce the time you spend in legal limbo and improve your chances of a favorable outcome.
7. What happens after I’m arrested on a Connecticut warrant?
You’ll be:
- Taken into custody
- Brought before a judge (usually within 24 hours)
- Arraigned, where the judge will set bail or release conditions
If the warrant is for a probation violation, a separate hearing may follow. For felonies, bail amounts may be higher and conditions stricter.
8. What can a criminal defense lawyer do about my warrant?
A Connecticut defense attorney can:
- Confirm the warrant privately
- Advise you on how to proceed safely
- Arrange a discreet surrender
- Advocate for release conditions at arraignment
- Prepare defenses to the underlying charge
In Stamford, we frequently negotiate surrender and appearance plans that minimize court and jail exposure.
9. Can arrest warrants expire in Connecticut?
No. Arrest warrants in Connecticut do not expire. They remain active until you are arrested or appear voluntarily in court. Ignoring a warrant can lead to more severe consequences, including additional charges.
10. Should I turn myself in if I have a warrant?
Yes—but with legal help. Turning yourself in without a plan could lead to:
- Being held without bail
- Getting booked in front of family or coworkers
- Spending the weekend in jail
With an attorney’s help, you can:
- Arrange for a weekday surrender
- Avoid unnecessary jail time
- Have bail arguments ready for court
Example: One Stamford client had an old FTA for a misdemeanor. With our assistance, they surrendered on a Wednesday morning, resolved the case at arraignment, and walked out by lunch.
Bonus Q: What happens if I ignore an arrest warrant in CT?
The consequences can snowball:
- Additional charges for failing to appear
- Harsher bail conditions
- A permanent record of a warrant arrest
- Missed opportunities for dismissal or diversion
Final Thoughts: Don’t Face a Connecticut Arrest Warrant Alone
Whether your warrant stems from a missed court date, a misunderstanding, or an active criminal investigation, the worst thing you can do is ignore it. The best thing you can do is act now—with the help of a seasoned Connecticut criminal defense attorney.
If you’re in Stamford, Bridgeport, or anywhere in Fairfield County and suspect or know you have a warrant, contact our office for a confidential consultation. We’ll explain your options, contact the court discreetly, and work to keep you out of jail—or get you out fast. (Call (203) 257-555 24/7 for a free consultation!
