What to Do If You Have a Warrant in Texas

February 13, 2026
By Justin Morgan
February 13, 2026

Finding out — or even suspecting — that you may have a warrant for your arrest can be stressful and frightening. Many people panic, ignore the issue, or rely on bad advice from friends or social media.

If you think you have a warrant in Texas, here’s what you should know and what you should do.

  • Stay Calm and Don’t Panic

A warrant does not automatically mean you’ll be arrested immediately, but it does mean law enforcement has the authority to arrest you at any time.

Panicking often leads to mistakes like fleeing, posting about it online, ignoring the problem, or talking to police without legal advice.

  •  Confirm Whether a Warrant Exists

Before taking action, verify the warrant. Depending on the county, you may be able to check county warrant databases, court or clerks websites, sheriff’s office listings, or call a bond company for help.

Be cautious: Some warrants may not appear online. A criminal defense attorney can often confirm warrants.

  •  Understand the Type of Warrant

Not all warrants are the same.

Arrest Warrant — Issued when probable cause exists that a crime was committed.
Bench Warrant — Typically issued for missing court, violating bond conditions, or failing to comply with a court order.
Blue Warrant — Often related to parole or probation issues and may carry serious custody consequences.

The strategy for resolving each type may differ.

  • Do NOT Ignore It

Ignoring a warrant can lead to unexpected arrest, jail time, higher bond, or additional charges such as Failure to Appear. Warrants rarely go away on their own.

  •  Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately

An attorney may be able to confirm the warrant, negotiate a bond, arrange a controlled surrender, seek a bond reduction, minimize custody time, and protect you from self‑incrimination.

Many warrant situations can be handled far more safely with counsel.

  •  Controlled Surrender vs. Surprise Arrest

With legal guidance, you may be able to arrange surrender on favorable terms, post bond quickly, avoid a public arrest, and reduce time in custody. Walking into a jail unadvised is rarely advisable.

Critical Mistakes to Avoid

Talking to police without a lawyer, trying to explain your side, resisting arrest, assuming minor warrants aren’t serious, or waiting until you’re arrested.

The Smart Move

If you believe you have a warrant in Texas

  1.  verify it,
  2. get legal advice, and
  3. act proactively.

Early intervention can dramatically change the outcome.

Need Help Resolving a Warrant?

The Law Firm of Justin K. Morgan PLLC assists clients with arrest warrants, bench warrants, bond issues, and warrant resolution strategies.

Contact us to discuss your situation confidentially.

Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this content does not create an attorney‑client relationship. Every case is different. If you have a warrant or are facing criminal charges, consult a qualified Texas attorney about your specific situation.

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