Search Blount County Bench Warrants

Blount County bench warrants are court orders for arrest issued when someone misses court or breaks a judge's order. The Circuit Clerk keeps these records at the courthouse in Oneonta. Note that the courthouse is at a temporary location during renovations. The county is known for covered bridges and the annual festival. You can search for warrants by calling the clerk or visiting in person.

What Is a Bench Warrant?

A bench warrant is a court order for your arrest. The judge issues it from the bench. When you miss a court date, the judge can issue one. This is called failure to appear or FTA. It means you did not show up when you should have.

Other reasons for bench warrants include not paying fines, not doing community service, and breaking probation rules. These all count as not following court orders. The warrant brings you back to court to face the judge.

Bench warrants differ from arrest warrants. An arrest warrant is for a new crime. Police get one based on evidence of a crime. A bench warrant is for an existing case where you broke the rules.

Under Code of Alabama Section 15-10-60, a bench warrant commands any peace officer to arrest you. They can do this any day, any time. This includes nights and weekends.

Felony bench warrants in Blount County never expire. They stay active until served or recalled. Misdemeanor warrants may have time limits, but judges often renew them. Do not assume your warrant expired.

Blount County Circuit Clerk

The Circuit Clerk maintains all court records in Blount County. This includes bench warrants, case files, and court orders. Due to courthouse renovations, the clerk is at a temporary address.

The county has issued scam alerts about people claiming to be court officials. Real court staff will not call and demand payment by phone. If you get such a call, hang up and call the clerk directly.

Blount County Sheriff

The Sheriff's office keeps copies of active warrants. You can call to ask if a warrant exists. The Sheriff executes bench warrants throughout the county.

Many people call the Sheriff before turning themselves in. Staff can tell you if you have an active warrant. They can also explain what to expect when you surrender.

How to Search Blount County Bench Warrants

There are several ways to check for bench warrants in Blount County. Pick the method that works for your situation.

Call the Sheriff: Call (205) 625-4114 and ask about warrants. Give the full name and date of birth. This is free and often the fastest option.

Call the Circuit Clerk: Call (205) 625-4153 to check court records. Staff can search for cases and warrants. They may ask you to visit for detailed info.

Visit in Person: Go to the temporary courthouse at 1000 Lincoln Avenue in Oneonta. Bring a valid ID. Staff can search records and provide copies.

Alacourt Access: Search court records online at pa.alacourt.com. A name search costs $9.99. This shows case details and bench warrants.

ALEA Background Check: For a full criminal history, contact Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. This costs $25 and requires fingerprints.

How to Clear a Bench Warrant in Blount County

If you have a bench warrant, deal with it now. Warrants do not go away on their own. Police can arrest you at any time.

Hiring a lawyer first is the safest approach. A lawyer can file a motion to recall the warrant. They can set a new court date and may appear on your behalf. This may help you avoid jail or get a lower bond.

You can also turn yourself in without a lawyer. Go to the Blount County Jail or courthouse during business hours. Remember to use the temporary location. Bring your ID. Tell staff you have a warrant. A judge will decide what happens next.

Under Code of Alabama Section 36-12-40, bench warrant records are public. Employers and landlords may find them on background checks. Clear your warrant before it causes problems.

If you owe fines or court costs, ask the clerk for the total before you appear. Many courts offer payment plans for larger amounts.

Blount County Bench Warrant Fees

Fees apply for searches and copies in Blount County.

• Sheriff phone check: Free
• Alacourt name search: $9.99
• Alacourt document images: $5.00 for first 20 pages
• Copy fees: $0.50 to $1.00 per page
• Certified copies: $5.00 and up
• ALEA background check: $25.00

Court fines and costs vary by case. Traffic tickets cost less than criminal cases. Ask the clerk for exact amounts before your hearing.

About Blount County Courts

Blount County is part of the 41st Judicial Circuit. The county is north of Birmingham and south of Huntsville. It is known for the Covered Bridge Festival held each October.

The county has three covered bridges still standing. Horton Mill Bridge spans 220 feet and is the highest covered bridge in the United States. Tourists visit year-round to see these historic structures.

Court matters here are handled like any other Alabama county. The Circuit Court hears felony cases. The District Court handles misdemeanors and traffic matters. Both courts can issue bench warrants.

Alabama State Court Resources

These statewide resources work for Blount County and all Alabama counties.

Alacourt Portal: Visit alacourt.gov for court info and local court links.

Alabama eForms: Get court forms at eforms.alacourt.gov.

AlaPay: Pay fines online at alapay.com.

Legal Help in Blount County

Free or low-cost legal help is available if you cannot afford a lawyer.

Legal Services Alabama: Free help for low-income residents. Call (205) 328-3540 for the Birmingham office or (866) 456-4995 toll-free.

Alabama State Bar Referral: Call (800) 354-6154 for a lawyer referral.

Court-Appointed Lawyer: If facing criminal charges and cannot afford a lawyer, ask the judge at your first appearance.

Nearby Counties

These counties border Blount County. Check where your offense happened to find the right county.