Law
Fact-checked

At MyLawQuestions, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How do I Find out if Someone Has Active Warrants?

Contel Bradford
Contel Bradford

There are a number of reasons why someone might want to find out if someone has active warrants out for their arrest. Companies may want this information before they hire someone to work for them, or individuals may feel that something is suspicious about a person they have recently met. Some people want to find out if there is a warrant for their arrest. Whatever the reason, it is important to know what options are available, so that you can obtain the information you want.

The first step is to search public records in your area. These records are publicly accessible and can usually be obtained from a local courthouse or police station. There are both advantages and disadvantages to this approach. The obvious advantage is that the records are freely available. On the other hand, if you require the information as soon as possible, this may not be the best option. Actually getting a report in your hands could take weeks, and possibly longer, after the initial request.

Not all active arrest warrants are listed on public websites, especially if the suspect may be a flight risk.
Not all active arrest warrants are listed on public websites, especially if the suspect may be a flight risk.

Another option is a warrant check via an online search. Visit your preferred search engine and enter the name of the individual you would like information on. This method often requires you to get innovative, as your first search may not yield the results you seek. You could try entering different variations of the person’s name to see if that helps your search efforts. If the search engines yield no results, it does not mean the individual does not have an arrest warrant. It could mean that you just need to try another approach.

A police officer can tell a person whether he has outstanding warrants, but this could lead to his arrest.
A police officer can tell a person whether he has outstanding warrants, but this could lead to his arrest.

There are many websites that allow you to search for active warrants. Some of these sites are free to use, while others require a fee. In many cases, the free sites will not provide the complete information needed to make a determination. They often provide users a little information in hopes that they will purchase a subscription to their service. Because purchasing anything on the Internet can be risky, conduct thorough research first to make sure you are dealing with a legitimate company before signing up for such a service.

Obtaining public records from a local courthouse will be one of the first steps to check is someone has an active warrant.
Obtaining public records from a local courthouse will be one of the first steps to check is someone has an active warrant.

Finding out if someone has active warrants may or may not be a difficult process, depending on the channels you choose to conduct the search through. Each of the aforementioned options can be effective, so the right channel is all a matter of preference and time sensitivity. Whatever route you choose, try to acquire as much accurate information about the individual as possible, because this can make your warrant search that much easier.

Discussion Comments

ellafarris

@whitesand – There are a few things to look for to determine if a website is reputable in performing a public records search for you. Free warrant searches are tricky, so I would stay away from those as much as possible.

The first thing to look for is its contact information. A reputable vital records website has more ways to contact them than just an email address.

Secondly make sure they have a frequently asked questions page. When sifting through the FAQ’s section, make sure they’re providing you with information on confidentiality and their site’s security issues.

You can also read the testimonials and rules for using their site along with any copyright information that’s available.

Also, one last thing, if they do have a telephone number then call it and make sure the company on the phone is the same as the website company.

whitesand

I want to check if there are any outstanding warrants on my cousin. There was a bench warrant out on him a while back for DUI but we haven’t had any contact with him, and I just want to find out if he had taken care of it or not. How do I determine if a website is legitimate or not?

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Not all active arrest warrants are listed on public websites, especially if the suspect may be a flight risk.
      By: Robert Hoetink
      Not all active arrest warrants are listed on public websites, especially if the suspect may be a flight risk.
    • A police officer can tell a person whether he has outstanding warrants, but this could lead to his arrest.
      By: James Steidl
      A police officer can tell a person whether he has outstanding warrants, but this could lead to his arrest.
    • Obtaining public records from a local courthouse will be one of the first steps to check is someone has an active warrant.
      By: surpasspro
      Obtaining public records from a local courthouse will be one of the first steps to check is someone has an active warrant.