Find Jackson County Bench Warrants

Jackson County bench warrants are issued when someone fails to appear in court or does not comply with a court order. The Circuit Clerk in Scottsboro keeps all official court records. The 38th Judicial Circuit serves Jackson County alone. At about 1,127 square miles, Jackson County is one of the largest counties in Alabama by area. It is home to Unclaimed Baggage, a famous retail store.

What Is a Bench Warrant in Jackson County?

A bench warrant is a court order for arrest. It comes from the judge's bench. In Jackson County, judges issue bench warrants when someone misses a court date or fails to follow a court order. This differs from an arrest warrant for a new crime.

Under Code of Alabama § 15-10-60, a bench warrant orders law enforcement to arrest the person and bring them before the court. Officers can execute the warrant at any time. There are no safe hours. They can arrest you at a traffic stop, at home, or at work.

Felony bench warrants never expire. They stay active until served or the court recalls them. Misdemeanor warrants may have limits but courts often renew them. A bench warrant will not go away if you ignore it. Deal with it before law enforcement deals with you.

Bench Warrant vs Arrest Warrant

These two warrant types are different. An arrest warrant is for a new crime. Police bring evidence to a judge. The judge signs the warrant. Officers then arrest the suspect. A bench warrant works differently.

A bench warrant comes from the court. You already had a case. You missed a hearing. You did not pay fines. You failed to complete community service. You violated probation. Any of these can result in a bench warrant in Jackson County.

Both types go into the state computer system. Both let police arrest you. Both appear on background checks. The key difference is why they were issued. A bench warrant means you did not handle an existing case properly.

Jackson County Circuit Clerk

The Circuit Clerk keeps all court records in Jackson County. This includes bench warrants, case files, and judgments. The office is on East Laurel Street in downtown Scottsboro. Staff can search for warrants and provide copies.

Minors under 18 who receive citations must appear with a parent or guardian. If you are a parent, make sure your child appears on time. Missing a court date can result in a bench warrant for the minor.

Jackson County Sheriff's Office

The Jackson County Sheriff maintains copies of active warrants. Deputies serve papers and make arrests. You can call to check if a warrant exists. Many people call before turning themselves in.

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 the bond amount is.

How to Search Jackson County Bench Warrants

There are several ways to check for bench warrants in Jackson County. Pick the method that works best for you. Some are free. Others have fees.

Call the Sheriff: Call (256) 574-2610. Ask if there is a warrant. Have the name and birth date ready. This is quick and usually free.

Call the Circuit Clerk: Call (256) 574-9320. The clerk can search court records. They may ask you to come in person for a detailed search.

Alacourt Access: Search online at pa.alacourt.com. A name search costs $9.99. Results show case details and any bench warrants issued.

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

ALEA Background Check: For a full criminal history, contact the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. The fee is $25. This covers all Alabama counties.

How to Clear a Jackson County Bench Warrant

A bench warrant will not go away on its own. Ignoring it only makes things worse. The warrant stays active until you deal with it. Here are your options.

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

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

Post Bond: Some warrants have a set bond amount. If you can pay it, you may get out quickly. Ask the Sheriff about the bond before you go in. 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 check for warrants. Clear yours to protect your job and housing.

Jackson County Bench Warrant Fees

Fees apply for searches and copies. Here are the common costs:

• Alacourt name search: $9.99
• Alacourt document images: $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 your warrant is for unpaid fines, you still owe those amounts. The warrant may add court costs. Ask the clerk what you owe before you appear. Payment plans may be available.

Jackson County Court Information

Scottsboro is the county seat and largest city. Jackson County is known for Unclaimed Baggage, a retail store that sells items from lost airline luggage. The store draws visitors from around the world.

The county is one of the largest in Alabama by area. It covers about 1,127 square miles. The Tennessee River forms part of the county border. Outdoor recreation is popular here, but the court system handles the same types of cases as anywhere else.

The 38th Judicial Circuit serves only Jackson County. All circuit court matters stay local. The courthouse is in downtown Scottsboro on East Laurel Street. Most county offices are nearby.

Nearby Counties

These counties share borders with Jackson County. Make sure you know which county issued your warrant before taking action.