How to Check for Bench Warrants in Arkansas

A bench warrant is a type of legal document issued by a judge when someone fails to appear in court or doesn’t follow a court order. In Arkansas, bench warrants are commonly issued when a person misses a court date or fails to pay a fine. While a bench warrant is serious, it’s different from an arrest warrant, which is issued for criminal offenses. Bench warrants are not arrestable offenses on their own, but they can lead to arrest if left unresolved. Here’show to check for a bench warrant in Arkansas and what you need to know about them.

1. Contact Local Law Enforcement

One of the simplest ways to check if a bench warrant has been issued against you is to contact the local police department or sheriff's office. In Arkansas, each county handles its own warrants, so you'll need to reach out to the sheriff's office in the county where the warrant may have been issued. Most sheriff’s offices can look up the warrant for you if you provide your name and other identifying details. They may offer this information over the phone, or you may need to visit their office in person.

However, keep in mind that while you won’t be arrested just for having a bench warrant, law enforcement can arrest you if the warrant isn’t taken care of. It’s best to act quickly to resolve the situation.

2. Search Online County Databases

Many Arkansas counties offer online databases that allow you to search for active warrants, including bench warrants. For example, counties like Pulaski, Washington, and Benton have online warrant search tools that let you enter a person’s name to see if any warrants exist. These tools are free to use and can give you immediate results.

If the county you're looking in doesn't offer an online database, check their official website for instructions on how to inquire about warrants. Some counties may still require you to contact the sheriff’s office or court clerk for the information.

3. Contact the Court Clerk's Office

Another way to check for a bench warrant in Arkansas is by contacting the clerk of the court where the warrant might have been issued. The court clerk’s office is responsible for keeping all records related to court cases, including bench warrants. You can request this information by visiting the office in person, calling, or emailing the court clerk. They can provide details about the warrant and explain what you need to do to resolve it.

What Makes Bench Warrants Different?

Unlike arrest warrants, bench warrants are not directly related to criminal charges. They are issued when someone does not comply with court procedures, such as failing to show up for a scheduled court date or neglecting to pay a fine. Because of this, bench warrants are not considered arrestable offenses in themselves. However, if you don’t resolve the warrant, it can lead to serious consequences, such as being taken into custody the next time you encounter law enforcement.

For example, if you're pulled over for a traffic violation, police can check your records and see that you have an outstanding bench warrant. At that point, they can arrest you, not for the original offense, but for failing to respond to the court.