1 - Can You Pay a Warrant Off in Arkansas?

Not exactly. A warrant is a court order, not a fine. While you may owe court fees or fines related to the case, you can’t “pay off” a warrant to make it disappear.

That said, if your warrant is tied to a missed payment or failure to appear, a lawyer may be able to:

• Request a new court date

• Reinstate bond

• Negotiate for warrant withdrawal

An active warrant in Arkansas can lead to an unexpected arrest at work, during a traffic stop, or even at home. Whether it’s a bench warrant for missing court or an arrest warrant after an investigation, the consequences can escalate quickly. At Ludwig Law Firm, we help clients handle Arkansas warrants discreetly and strategically, often avoiding unnecessary jail time or public embarrassment.

As always - if you have a legal question you want answered in a future blog, submit it via the form on this page. Now, let's dive in!

2 - How to Handle a Warrant Without Going to Jail

You’ll need legal help. In many Arkansas counties, we can file a motion to quash the warrant, explain the reason for your absence or non-compliance, and resolve the issue before you’re taken into custody.

In cases tied to unpaid fines or traffic violations, courts may allow:

• Payment plans

• Community service alternatives

• Same-day court appearances to lift the warrant

But you must act before you're arrested.

3 - How Long Do Warrants Stay Active in Arkansas?

Indefinitely. There is no expiration date on a warrant in Arkansas. It stays active until:

• You are arrested

• You voluntarily appear in court

• Your attorney gets the warrant lifted

Some clients discover active warrants years later during background checks or routine traffic stops.

4 - Do I Have to Turn Myself In for a Warrant?

Not always. While you can voluntarily surrender, it’s often better to let your lawyer:

• Contact the court or prosecutor

• Negotiate terms of appearance

• Schedule a “walk-through” booking to avoid jail time

• File a motion to recall the warrant

At Ludwig Law Firm, we help clients resolve warrants without ever stepping into a cell.

You Don’t Have Time to Wait

Don’t Wait to Be Arrested. Handle It Now.

Call 501-838-4043 or visit ludwiglawfirm.com. We’ll resolve your warrant quickly and protect your record.

📞 Call Ludwig Law Firm today at 501-838-4043
🌐 Visit us at ludwiglawfirm.com
📍 Proudly serving clients in the Eastern and Western Districts of Arkansas

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Reading this blog or interacting with Ludwig Law Firm through this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every legal case is different, and you should not act or rely on any information in this blog without first consulting with a licensed attorney about your specific situation. For legal guidance tailored to your needs, please contact Ludwig Law Firm directly.

5 - What Is a Bench Warrant in Arkansas?

A bench warrant is issued by a judge—usually for failure to appear in court or violating court orders. It authorizes law enforcement to arrest you and bring you back before the court.

Common triggers include:

• Missing a scheduled court date

• Violating probation

• Not paying fines

• Ignoring subpoenas

6 - How Long Do You Spend in Jail for a Warrant?

If you’re arrested on a warrant, you’ll usually stay in jail until:

• A judge sets or reinstates your bond

• You pay any bond or fees

• You’re brought before the court

That could be hours or days, depending on court schedules, county policies, and your specific charges.

7 - How to Know If You Have a Warrant in Arkansas

You can check for warrants by:

• Calling the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office Warrant Division or your local agency

• Using the Arkansas CourtConnect online portal

• Contacting a defense attorney (we check for clients discreetly)

8 - What to Avoid If You Have a Warrant

• Don’t ignore it

• Don’t travel out of state

• Don’t get pulled over—you will be taken in

• Don’t contact the court without legal help

9 - Can You Refuse a Warrant in Arkansas?

If officers have a valid warrant, you cannot legally refuse it. However, you can:

• Ask to see it

• Remain silent

• Request your lawyer immediately

Resisting arrest can lead to new charges and make your situation worse.

10 - Will Law Enforcement Look for You If You Have a Warrant?

Yes. Depending on the charge, they may:

• Ask to see it

• Remain silent

• Request your lawyer immediately

Resisting arrest can lead to new charges and make your situation worse.

We help clients avoid this by resolving the warrant before police do.

We also work with firms like Warden Law Firm when fast courtroom action is needed. When a client needs both finesse and firepower, a Ludwig and Warden partnership is the best option.