Federal Arrest Warrants: What It Means and What You Should Do

Finding yourself involved in a federal criminal process is a scary situation for anyone. Whether you’ve been arrested on a federal charge or you have been told a warrant will be issued for you, knowing what it means and how to protect yourself can alleviate confusion and ensure your rights are protected.

What is a Federal Arrest Warrant?

When a federal law has been broken and there is enough evidence to determine who may be at fault, a federal judge or magistrate are authorized to issue a federal arrest warrant. You will most likely learn that a federal arrest warrant has been issued for you when law enforcement arrests you. In some instances, such as when a co-defendant is arrested, or an officer comes to arrest you when you are not on the premises, you may learn about it before being arrested.

A federal arrest warrant must include some specifics about the defendant and the case:

• The defendant’s name, or a thorough description of the person if the name is unknown
• A description of the offense the defendant is being charged with
• A command that the defendant be arrested and brought before the judge without unnecessary delay
• A signature from the presiding judge

Only a marshal or authorized officer may execute the warrant and arrest the defendant. The warrant can be executed anywhere within the jurisdiction of the United States or in additional locations as mandated by the federal statutes. The arresting official must show the defendant the arrest warrant, or if it is not available at the time of the arrest, inform the defendant of its existence and provide it upon request as quickly as possible.

What You Should Do When a Federal Arrest Warrant Has Been Issued

Federal criminal proceedings are not something to be taken lightly. There are many situations that require that you locate a trusted and experienced attorney to help you navigate the court system.

• If you have been charged or arrested with a federal drug crime or other federal offense
• If your home, business, or property has been searched by federal officers
• If a federal agency has reached out to interview you
• If you have been told that a federal arrest warrant has been or will be issued for you

If you find out that a federal arrest warrant has been issued for you prior to being arrested, your attorney can contact the US Marshal’s office to arrange for your surrender. Planning a surrender for a federal arrest warrant can increase your chances of a prompt initial appearance, detention hearing, and bail hearing. Demonstrating that you are not a flight risk by surrendering to authorities can also improve your chances of being released on bail.

An attorney that specializes in federal cases will be working to protect your rights, answer your questions, and help fight your case. Don’t try to navigate the federal court system alone.