A bench warrant is a type of arrest warrant issued by a judge, usually without a request from police officers. It is issued when a defendant violates the rules of the court, most often by failing to appear in court on a designated court date to face charges. Once a bench warrant is issued, the police can treat it like any other arrest warrant and use it to bring the defendant back in front of the judge. The bench warrant will state the issuing judges name, the date on which the defendant failed to appear, and the courtroom number. If the defendant is arrested on a bench warrant, they will be taken to jail, and a bench warrant return hearing will be held shortly thereafter before the issuing judge. At this hearing, the defendants defense attorney will argue for their release, commonly referred to as a bond hearing. The judge may release the defendant, release them on revised conditions, or order that they remain held in custody without bail. If you have an outstanding bench warrant, it is recommended to contact a skilled criminal defense attorney immediately.