Q: What is considered fleeing when you have a bench warrant for a failure to appear on a misdemeanor?
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A:
In California, a bench warrant issued for failure to appear on a misdemeanor charge can lead to considerations of fleeing, but the term "fleeing" has specific connotations. Fleeing, in a legal context, implies a deliberate attempt to avoid legal responsibility or evade law enforcement. This can be through actions like leaving the state or going into hiding specifically to avoid arrest or court appearances.
Merely not showing up for a court date, without more, is not typically considered fleeing. However, if actions are taken to actively avoid arrest or deliberately evade the consequences of the bench warrant, such actions might be interpreted as fleeing. It's crucial to remember that each case can vary based on the specific circumstances and the individual's actions after the issuance of the bench warrant.
If someone has a bench warrant for failure to appear, it's generally advisable to address the issue promptly. This can be done by contacting the court to explain the absence and to reschedule the court appearance. Ignoring the warrant or taking steps to avoid it can lead to more severe consequences and potentially compound legal troubles.
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