Search Dale County Bench Warrants

Dale County bench warrants are issued when someone fails to appear in court or does not follow a court order. The Circuit Clerk in Ozark keeps all official records. The 33rd Judicial Circuit serves Dale County along with Geneva and Coffee counties. Fort Novosel, the U.S. Army Aviation Center, is located nearby. This makes Dale County a mix of rural Alabama and military community.

What Is a Bench Warrant in Dale County?

A bench warrant is a court order for arrest. It comes from the judge's bench. In Dale County, judges issue these when someone misses court or breaks a court order. This is not the same as an arrest warrant for a new crime. A bench warrant is for not following rules in an existing case.

The Dale County Circuit Court handles felony cases. The District Court deals with misdemeanors and traffic matters. Both courts can issue bench warrants. When a judge signs one, law enforcement can arrest the person any time, day or night. Under Code of Alabama § 15-10-2, officers may execute warrants at any hour.

Felony bench warrants never expire. They stay active until served or the court recalls them. A bench warrant will not go away on its own. Misdemeanor warrants may have time limits, but courts often renew them. If you have a warrant in Dale County, deal with it now rather than wait.

Bench Warrant vs Arrest Warrant

People often confuse these two types of warrants. They are not the same thing. An arrest warrant is for a new crime. Police ask a judge for one when they have evidence someone broke the law. A bench warrant is different.

A bench warrant comes from the court itself. It means you already had a case but did not show up or follow orders. You might have missed a hearing. You might have skipped paying fines. You might have failed to complete community service. All of these can lead to a bench warrant in Dale County.

Both types let police arrest you. Both go into the state computer system. Both show up on background checks. The main difference is why the warrant was issued. One is for a new offense. The other is for not handling an old case properly.

Dale County Circuit Clerk

The Circuit Clerk keeps all court records in Dale County. This includes bench warrants, case files, and court orders. The office is in the courthouse in downtown Ozark. Staff can search for warrants and provide copies of documents.

Call ahead before you visit. The clerk staff can tell you what documents to bring. They can also tell you if there is a warrant in your name. This helps you plan before going to the courthouse in person.

Dale County Sheriff's Office

The Dale County Sheriff keeps copies of active warrants. The Sheriff's office executes arrests and serves legal papers. You can call to ask about a warrant. Many people call before turning themselves in so they know what to expect.

The Sheriff's phone check is usually free. Have the full name and date of birth ready when you call. Deputies can tell you if a warrant exists and what it is for. They can also explain what happens if you turn yourself in.

How to Search Dale County Bench Warrants

You can search for bench warrants in Dale County in several ways. Pick the method that works best for your situation. Some are free. Others have costs.

Call the Sheriff: Call (334) 774-2335. Ask if there is a warrant for the person. Have the full name and birth date ready. This is quick and free in most cases.

Call the Circuit Clerk: Call (334) 774-5003. The clerk can check court records. They may ask you to visit in person for a full search. Ask about any fees before you go.

Alacourt Access: Search online at pa.alacourt.com. A name search costs $9.99. You can see case details, including bench warrants. This system covers all Alabama courts.

Visit in Person: Go to the clerk office at the courthouse. Bring a valid ID. Staff can run a search and print copies for you. Certified copies cost extra.

ALEA Background Check: For a full criminal history, contact the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. The fee is $25. This shows all Alabama records, not just Dale County. Mail requests to P.O. Box 1511, Montgomery, AL 36102-1511.

How to Clear a Dale County Bench Warrant

A bench warrant will not go away on its own. It stays active until you deal with it. The longer you wait, the worse it can get. Clear it now to avoid bigger problems later.

Hire a Lawyer: This is the safest option. A lawyer can file a motion to recall the warrant. They may be able to get you a new court date without jail time. The lawyer can also appear with you when you turn yourself in.

Turn Yourself In: Go to the Dale County Jail or the courthouse during business hours. Tell them you have a warrant. Bring your ID. You will see a judge who will decide on bail or release.

Post Bond: Some warrants allow you to post bond without spending the night in jail. Ask the Sheriff's office about the bond amount. A bondsman can help if you cannot pay the full amount.

Under Code of Alabama § 36-12-40, bench warrant records are public. Employers and landlords may find them. Clear your warrant to keep it from hurting your job or housing options.

Dale County Bench Warrant Fees

Fees apply when you search for records or deal with a case. Here are common costs:

• Alacourt name search: $9.99
• Document images on Alacourt: $5.00 for first 20 pages
• Copy fees at clerk office: varies by page count
• Certified copies: $5.00 and up
• ALEA background check: $25.00
• Sheriff phone check: usually free

If you owe fines or court costs from your original case, those still apply. The bench warrant may add extra fees too. Ask the clerk what you owe before you appear. Payment plans may be available for large amounts.

Fort Novosel and Dale County Courts

Fort Novosel, formerly Fort Rucker, is the U.S. Army Aviation Center. It sits just outside Ozark in Dale County. Many military families and civilian workers live here. If you have a warrant in Dale County, being in the military does not change the process.

Military personnel must still answer to civilian courts for civilian offenses. A bench warrant can affect your security clearance. It can affect your career. Deal with it fast. The Dale County courts work with people on military duty schedules when possible.

The base was renamed Fort Novosel in 2023 to honor Medal of Honor recipient Michael Novosel. In 2025, it was renamed back to Fort Rucker. Either name you hear, the same rules apply. The courts in Ozark handle any bench warrants from this area.

Nearby Counties

These counties border Dale County. If you are not sure which county handles your case, check where the offense happened. Each county has its own court system.