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NYC Bench Warrants Criminal Lawyers

If you’re on our website, it’s because you’re in legal trouble – and need the best criminal defense attorney. At Spodek Law Group – we understand that, and take this very seriously. Our goal is to provide you the best possible legal representation at all stages of your case. Our law firm has offices throughout NYC, and our team has experience dealing with some of the toughest legal issues nationwide.


What Is a Bench Warrant, and Why It Matters

A bench warrant is issued by a judge, often because a defendant missed a court date or failed to comply with a court order. It doesn’t vanish just because time passes. We’ve seen situations where clients missed court for simple reasons—like not getting notice or dealing with a personal emergency—yet ended up in serious legal trouble. That’s why addressing a bench warrant proactively is something we encourage you to do as soon as possible. We are available 24/7 to help you.


Our Philosophy: We Only Take On Clients We Can Help

At Spodek Law Group, we focus on only working with clients who we can truly help. Many law firms are ‘mills’ and take on every single client, regardless of their skills, or ability. Spodek Law Group is known for providing the best possible customer service. Our team has over 50 years of combined experience, and we’ve been on all major news outlets for legal insights. Whether you’re dealing with a state or federal bench warrant, our goal is to provide you the best possible legal representation at all stages of your case. Our only objective is to get the case against you dismissed, or significantly diminished.


State vs. Federal Bench Warrants

Some clients ask if they can face both state and federal legal trouble. The short answer is yes—double jeopardy doesn’t prohibit separate prosecutions if both jurisdictions have laws covering the same conduct. Under New York Criminal Procedure Law (CPL) §§ 530.70 and 510.50, state courts can issue bench warrants when you miss appearances or violate bail conditions. On the federal side, Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 9 applies if you fail to show up in federal court. It’s important to understand that each system has its own procedures and penalties. Having a law firm that can handle complex cases in both courts is essential.


The Consequences of Ignoring a Bench Warrant

If you’re on our website, it’s because you’re in legal trouble – and need the best criminal defense attorney. If you have received notice of a bench warrant, you don’t really have a choice – you need an attorney ASAP. Judges might revoke your bail, or impose stricter conditions. You could be held until your next court date, which disrupts your life and employment. In some situations, immigration or professional licensing issues can arise, making it even more important to tackle the warrant now rather than wait.


Nuanced Defense Strategies

Regardless of the situation you find yourself in, our attorneys create defense strategies that fit you. Below are a few scenarios we see frequently at Spodek Law Group.

Scenario #1: Missed Court Due to Personal Emergency

  • Approach: We collect proof—like medical records or travel documents—to show no intent to evade court. We reference statutes like CPL § 410.10 if applicable, and file a motion to vacate the bench warrant.
  • Result: Judges often allow you back on the court’s calendar without severe repercussions, especially if this is your first missed appearance.

Scenario #2: Non-Payment of Fines or Fees

  • Approach: We show financial hardship or clarify any confusion about payment deadlines. We can negotiate new payment plans, minimizing the risk of jail time.
  • Result: The court may revoke the warrant and let you handle the fines in a structured way.

Scenario #3: Federal Bench Warrant for White Collar Investigations

  • Approach: We look at the entire federal matter—like any indictment or target letters—and explain why you missed court. We emphasize your good faith and demonstrate compliance.
  • Result: If we show the government it wasn’t willful evasion, because many attorneys send us clients, knowing we can get the best possible outcome for them. You maintain better negotiating power.

Scenario #4: Multiple Jurisdictions Involved

  • Approach: Sometimes you have warrants in both local and federal courts. We coordinate each step because if federal authorities are involved, you should hire an experienced New York criminal lawyer – ASAP. We take a very hands-on approach to handling your case.
  • Result: Handling everything in a unified plan helps avoid unexpected arrests or added charges.

Common Reasons Bench Warrants Arise in NYC and How We Help

Reason for Warrant Potential Consequences Defense Strategy
Failure to Appear (State) Arrest, bail revocation, possible jail time Prove valid cause (e.g. family emergency), file motion to vacate
Missed Federal Court Hearing Detention by U.S. Marshals, stricter federal conditions Arrange voluntary surrender, emphasize no intent to skip
Unpaid Fines/Fees Additional fines, possible jail, credit impact Negotiate extended schedule, show financial hardship
Violated Release/Bail Terms Bail revocation, potential new charges, jail time Explain mitigating facts, restore compliance efforts

Practical Tips: Getting a Bench Warrant Resolved

  1. Act Fast: If you’re looking to hire a criminal defense attorney, it’s likely the Spodek Law Group is on your radar – we encourage you to act sooner rather than later.
  2. Gather Documents: We encourage you to take this opportunity to ask the tough questions you have, and keep proof of any missed notices, family crises, or financial hardships.
  3. Don’t Go In Alone: Surrendering without legal counsel can lead to being remanded immediately.
  4. Stay Organized: Save all court notices and keep track of everything.
  5. Work with Experienced Attorneys: Our attorneys have over 50 years of combined experience handling complex federal cases.

At Spodek Law Group, We Take This Seriously

We have a simple belief: criminal defense lawyers should only take on clients who they can help. … because Spodek Law Group is known for providing the best possible customer service. We pride ourselves on having a rock star team of attorneys, with over 50 years of combined experience. … and our only objective is to get the case against you dismissed, or significantly diminished.

Lawyers You Can Trust

Todd Spodek

Founding Partner

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RALPH P. FRANCHO, JR

Associate

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JEREMY FEIGENBAUM

Associate Attorney

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ELIZABETH GARVEY

Associate

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CLAIRE BANKS

Associate

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RAJESH BARUA

Of-Counsel

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CHAD LEWIN

Of-Counsel

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Criminal Defense Lawyers Trusted By the Media

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