Arizona Warrant Search

An Arizona warrant search furnishes inquirers with information about outstanding warrants on an individual. These warrants are legal orders issued by judges or magistrates authorizing law enforcement officers to arrest, search, or seize someone or something. They are typically issued when there is probable cause to believe that a person has committed a crime, violated a court order, or is in possession of contraband.

In Arizona, the agency responsible for processing warrant search requests and maintaining warrant information is the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS). The DPS may collaborate with local law enforcement agencies to execute warrants and update the statewide database featuring criminal history information (including warrants). Interested persons may conduct a warrant search through the DPS website or by contacting local law enforcement agencies.

Are Warrants Public Records in Arizona

Yes. Under the Arizona Public Records Law, warrants are considered public records. As such, they are accessible to interested members of the public unless specific legal exemptions apply. However, while the law promotes transparency of judicial documents (like warrants), certain parts of warrant information may be designated confidential to protect sensitive details, investigative methods, or individuals involved. For example, the identity of informants who provide crucial information leading to the issuance of a warrant may be protected to safeguard their safety and encourage cooperation with law enforcement. Additionally, specific documents submitted as part of a warrant application, which may contain sensitive investigative details, could be withheld from public disclosure.

Types of Warrants in Arizona

The Arizona Judicial Branch outlines three primary types of warrants, each serving specific legal purposes within the state's judicial system: 

• Arizona Arrest Warrants: Judges or magistrates issue arrest warrants to empower law enforcement officers to arrest and detain an individual suspected of committing a specific crime. Warrants are only issued if the executor submits a sworn affidavit demonstrating probable cause. This affidavit must convincingly establish that the alleged crime has occurred and that the individual named in the warrant is likely responsible. 
• Arizona Search Warrants: These are also issued by judges and grant law enforcement the legal authority to search designated premises in pursuit of evidence related to a specific crime. The process requires law enforcement to present a signed and sworn affidavit to the judge, establishing probable cause that the targeted evidence exists at the specified location. 
• Arizona Bench warrants: These are a type of arrest warrant that become necessary when individuals fail to fulfill their court-ordered obligations. Following the defendant's non-compliance, a judge may issue a bench warrant, prompting law enforcement to arrest the individual listed and bring them before the court. 

What is a Search Warrant in Arizona?

According to the Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) § 13-3911, a search warrant is an official written order signed by the magistrate allowing peace officers to search a specific place or person for evidence related to a crime. The main goal of a search warrant is to balance the need for police investigations with protecting individuals' privacy and property rights from unjust searches and seizures.

To get a search warrant in Arizona, peace officers must provide sufficient evidence to convince a judge or magistrate that the place or person to be searched holds evidence of a crime. They also have to describe the location and items to be seized clearly. If the magistrate is satisfied with the evidence, they will issue the warrant (ARS § 13-3914).

Executing a search warrant in Arizona involves the following:

• An officer must carry out the warrant within a reasonable time, not exceeding 60 days from issuance.
• The officer can be accompanied by others for safety and successful execution.
• Before entering a dwelling, the officer must announce their presence and authority unless it's dangerous, futile, or hinders the investigation.
• A copy of the warrant should be given to the person to be searched unless it jeopardizes its execution.
• The search is limited to what the warrant authorizes and what is reasonably necessary to find the specified items.
• The officer can seize items not listed on the warrant if they reasonably believe they are subject to seizure (like contraband or evidence of other crimes)
• A receipt describing seized items must be given to the person from whom they are taken.
• Within five days after execution, the officer must return the warrant and seized items to the issuing judge or magistrate.

The rights and limitations in executing a search warrant in Arizona are rooted in the constitutional principles of the Fourth Amendment, protecting people from unjust searches and seizures, and the Fourteenth Amendment, ensuring due process of law and equal protection.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Search Warrant?

In Arizona, the time it takes to obtain a search warrant can vary. Judges from any court in the state have the authority to issue a warrant swiftly, often within minutes or hours. 

The credibility of the information provided is the crucial factor influencing the speed of obtaining a search warrant. Additionally, the availability of a judge and the ability of police officers to convince the judge of the necessity for a warrant also play roles in the timeline.

Once a search warrant is issued, it must be executed within 10 days from the day of its issuance. This means that law enforcement officers need to search within this specified timeframe. If they fail to do so, the search warrant expires and loses its validity. In essence, the timely execution of the search warrant is essential to its effectiveness.

What is an Arrest Warrant in Arizona?

An arrest warrant is a legal directive issued by a court that empowers the police to apprehend an individual accused of committing a crime. In Arizona, a judge has the authority to issue an arrest warrant provided evidence indicates a reasonable suspicion that the person in question has committed the alleged offense. The warrant must specify critical details, including the individual's name, the crime they are charged with, and the location and date of issuance.

Upon issuing an arrest warrant, law enforcement gains the authority to search for and detain the individuals until they appear in court to address the charges against them. It serves as a legal instrument that enables the police to take necessary actions to ensure the person's appearance in court.

If someone is subject to an arrest warrant in Arizona, seeking legal advice from a qualified attorney to address the warrant, navigate the legal process, and protect the individual's rights is crucial.

Arrest Warrant Lookup in Arizona

To find out if someone has an arrest warrant in Arizona, inquirers may:

Search court records online: To start an online warrant search, inquirers may utilize the Arizona Judicial Branch public access case search tool. This resource allows users to search for warrants by inputting names, birth months, birth years, and specific courts. This website provides information on criminal, civil, family, probate, and juvenile cases, as well as arrest and bench warrants. However, not all courts participate in this system; some records may be sealed or restricted. Therefore, this method may not provide a complete or accurate picture of a person's warrant status.

Contact law enforcement agencies: Another way to check for arrest warrants is to contact the law enforcement agencies that may have issued or executed them. For example, inquirers call the Arizona Department of Public Safety at (602) 223-2233 or (602) 223-2217 or the county sheriff's office where the warrant was issued. Inquirers may be asked to provide a case number, name, birth date, and social security number (if available). 

Use online databases or third-party services: Some online databases or third-party services provide arrest warrant information for a fee or for free.

How to Find Out If You Have a Warrant in Arizona

Members of the public may initiate a warrant search through the online databases of the Arizona Judicial Branch, the Arizona Department of Public Safety, or the specific county or city courts where the warrant might have originated. These platforms typically provide comprehensive information regarding the existence and status of warrants.

Alternatively, individuals may contact a local law enforcement agency directly or consult with an attorney to inquire about a warrant's existence and current status. Local law enforcement agencies often have the latest information on warrants and can assist in verifying their status.

Free Warrant Search in Arizona

In Arizona, individuals have four primary methods to conduct a free warrant search, each with its considerations and potential outcomes.

Online Search: The most accessible approach is an online search using the Public Court Information Database. By entering personal details like first name, last name, and date of birth, individuals can retrieve information on the status of their case, type of warrant, issuing court, and bail or bond amount. 

Phone Call: The Arizona Department of Public Safety maintains a comprehensive database of active warrants and can supply details such as the date of issue, offense, court information, and bail amount. Identity verification is required, and individuals may receive guidance on surrendering or resolving the warrant with the issuing court.

Local Law Enforcement: Seeking assistance from local law enforcement agencies, including county sheriff's offices or city police departments, is a third option. These agencies have access to more accurate and up-to-date local or regional warrant databases compared to the state database. However, individuals may be required to provide personal information. They may be directed to turn themselves in or appear in court, with the potential risk of arrest if approached by law enforcement.

Individuals should note that each method has its considerations and should be aware of potential consequences such as surrendering, appearing in court, or facing arrest. 

How to Find Out If Someone Has A Warrant Online

Inquirers may find out if someone has a warrant online using the Arizona Judicial Branch Public Court Information Database. This database allows individuals to perform a free warrant search with the person's first name, last name, and date of birth. Inquirers can also search by case number and issuing court if they can access that information. The database will show not only warrant information but also general criminal case information, such as charges, court dates, and outcomes. 

How Long Do Warrants Last in Arizona

In Arizona, the duration of warrants varies depending on their type. By Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) § 13-3918, the execution of a search warrant must occur within 5 calendar days from the date of its issuance. Following the execution, the warrant must be returned to a magistrate within three court business days. If the warrant is not executed within the stipulated five-day period, it becomes void unless a magistrate grants an extension.

Arrest warrants in Arizona do not come with a specific expiration date. Instead, they remain active until the individual named in the warrant is apprehended, appears in court, or the warrant is otherwise resolved. Unlike some states, Arizona does not impose a statute of limitations on arrest warrants, meaning they can persist indefinitely until the specified conditions are met.

Similarly, bench warrants do not typically have a predetermined expiration date. These warrants remain valid until the subject appears in court or is arrested.