Search Cullman County Bench Warrants
Cullman County bench warrants are court orders for arrest issued when someone misses court or fails to follow a judge's order. The Circuit Clerk in Cullman keeps these records. Cullman County is one of the fastest growing counties in Alabama. The county has its own dedicated courts website. You can check for warrants by calling the clerk or Sheriff.
Cullman County Quick Facts
What Is a Bench Warrant?
A bench warrant is a court order for arrest. It comes from the judge's bench. When someone misses court, the judge issues one. This is failure to appear or FTA.
Other reasons include unpaid fines, missed community service, and broken probation rules. All count as not following court orders. The warrant brings you back to court.
Bench warrants differ from arrest warrants. An arrest warrant is for a new 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 tells officers to arrest you. They can do this any day, any time. Home, work, or traffic stops are all fair game.
Felony bench warrants in Cullman County never expire. They stay active until served or recalled. Misdemeanor warrants may have limits but judges can renew them.
Cullman County Circuit Clerk
The Circuit Clerk keeps all court records in Cullman County. This includes bench warrants, case files, and judgments. The county has its own dedicated courts website separate from the county commission site.
| Circuit Clerk | Robert Bates |
|---|---|
| Address |
Cullman County Courthouse 500 2nd Avenue SW, Room 303 Cullman, AL 35055 |
| Phone | (256) 775-4654 |
| Hours | Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM |
| Website | cullmancourts.org |
Cullman County is among the fastest growing counties in Alabama. The Ave Maria Grotto in Cullman is a famous attraction with miniature buildings from around the world. The county was founded by German immigrants in 1877.
Cullman County Sheriff
The Sheriff's office keeps copies of active warrants. You can call to check if a warrant exists. Deputies serve warrants throughout the county.
| Address |
Cullman County Sheriff's Office Cullman, AL 35055 |
|---|---|
| Phone | (256) 734-0342 |
Call the Sheriff before turning yourself in. They can explain what to expect when you surrender.
How to Search Cullman County Bench Warrants
You can check for bench warrants in Cullman County several ways.
Call the Sheriff: Call (256) 734-0342 and ask about warrants. Give the full name and date of birth. This is free and quick.
Call the Circuit Clerk: Call (256) 775-4654 to check court records. Staff can search for cases and warrants. For copies, visit in person.
Visit in Person: Go to the courthouse at 500 2nd Avenue SW in Cullman. Bring valid ID. Staff can search records and provide copies.
Alacourt Access: Search court records at pa.alacourt.com. A name search costs $9.99 and shows bench warrants.
ALEA Background Check: For a full criminal history, contact Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. This costs $25 and needs fingerprints.
How to Clear a Bench Warrant in Cullman County
An active warrant will not go away on its own. Deal with it now. Police can arrest you any time.
Hiring a lawyer first is the safest way. A lawyer can file a motion to recall the warrant. They can set a new court date and may help you avoid jail.
You can also turn yourself in directly. Go to the Cullman County Jail or courthouse during business hours. Bring your ID. A judge will decide whether to set bail or hold you.
Under Code of Alabama Section 36-12-40, bench warrant records are public. Clear yours before it shows on a background check.
Cullman County Bench Warrant Fees
Fees apply for record searches and copies in Cullman 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 vary by case type. Ask the clerk for exact amounts before your hearing.
Alabama State Court Resources
These statewide tools work for Cullman County and all Alabama counties.
Alacourt Portal: Visit alacourt.gov for court info and forms.
Alabama eForms: Get court forms at eforms.alacourt.gov.
AlaPay: Pay fines online at alapay.com.
Administrative Office of Courts: For questions, call 1-866-954-9411.
Legal Help in Cullman County
Free legal help is available if you cannot afford a lawyer.
Legal Services Alabama: Free help for low-income residents. Call (256) 536-9645 for the Huntsville 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, ask the judge to appoint a lawyer at your first appearance.
Nearby Counties
These counties border Cullman County. Check where your offense took place.