Houston County Public Records /Houston County Warrant Search

Houston County Warrant Search

How To Check for Warrants in Houston County in 2026

HoustonCountyRecords.us provides access to publicly available information related to warrant records in Houston County, Alabama. Members of the public may find data pertaining to active arrest warrants, bench warrants, court case filings, inmate records, and related criminal justice documents. Record availability depends on the issuing authority and the current status of each case.

Members of the public may search for warrant records through several official channels in Houston County. The primary resources include the Houston County Sheriff's Office, the Houston County Circuit Court, and the Alabama Administrative Office of Courts statewide case search portal. Each resource maintains distinct databases, and a thorough search requires consulting more than one source.

Official Resources for Warrant Searches:

Resource	Access Method	Cost
Houston County Sheriff's Office	In-person or phone	Free
Alabama Alacourt.gov Case Search	Online portal	Free
Houston County Circuit Clerk	In-person or phone	Free to view
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency	Online/phone	Free

Steps to Search for Warrants Officially:

Visit the Alabama Administrative Office of Courts and use the "Just One Look" on-demand access portal to search state trial court records by name and date of birth.
Contact the Houston County Sheriff's Office by phone at (334) 677-4882 to request a warrant check by providing full legal name and date of birth.
Visit the Houston County Circuit Clerk's office in person to review case files and confirm bench warrant status.
Search the Houston County inmate listing to determine whether a subject is currently in custody.

Why Check for Warrants:

Avoid unexpected arrest during a routine traffic stop or other law enforcement encounter
Resolve outstanding legal obligations proactively before they compound
Clear up administrative misunderstandings such as missed court notices
Handle legal matters responsibly and demonstrate good faith to the court
Obtain peace of mind regarding one's standing with the court system

Warning Signs You May Have a Warrant:

Missed a scheduled court appearance without notifying the court
Failed to pay court-ordered fines or costs within the required timeframe
Violated the terms of probation or a supervision agreement
Aware of pending charges that have not yet been resolved
A traffic stop resulted in release with a warning rather than a citation
Received a notice to appear and did not comply

Methods to Check for Warrants:

1. Online Warrant Search

The Alabama Administrative Office of Courts provides on-demand access to Alabama state trial court records through its public portal. Members of the public may search by name to identify active cases, warrant status, and case history. The Houston County Circuit Court case records are accessible through this statewide system. Searches are free and available to the public without registration. Results are updated regularly and reflect active warrant status as maintained by the court.

2. Call Law Enforcement

Members of the public may contact the Houston County Sheriff's Office by telephone to inquire about warrant status. The non-emergency line should be used; members of the public should not call 911 for warrant inquiries.

Houston County Sheriff's Office
411 N Foster Street
Dothan, AL 36303
Phone: (334) 677-4882
Phone: (334) 677-4808
Houston County Sheriff's Office

When calling, be prepared to provide:

Full legal name
Date of birth
Social Security number (may be requested)

Anonymous inquiry may not be possible in all circumstances. Individuals who confirm an active warrant by phone should consult an attorney before taking further action, as law enforcement is obligated to execute active warrants upon contact.

3. Visit the Sheriff's Office or Police Department

Members of the public may appear in person at the Houston County Sheriff's Office to request a warrant check at the records window or front desk. A valid government-issued photo identification is required. Warning: Individuals who appear in person and are found to have an active warrant may be subject to immediate arrest. Deputies are legally obligated to execute active warrants upon identifying the subject. Some agencies permit inquiry for certain warrant types without immediate arrest, but this is not guaranteed.

4. Contact the Court

The Houston County Circuit Clerk's office maintains court records including bench warrants. Staff can confirm warrant status in open case files. The Clerk's office will not initiate an arrest, but the warrant remains active and enforceable.

Houston County Circuit Clerk – Twentieth Judicial Circuit
114 N Oates Street
Dothan, AL 36303
Phone: (334) 677-4800
Houston County Circuit Court

Circuit Clerk Carla H. Woodall oversees court records, warrants, and jury management for the Twentieth Judicial Circuit. The Circuit Clerk's office is the official custodian of warrant-related court documents in Houston County.

5. Hire an Attorney

Retaining an attorney is the safest method for individuals who suspect an active warrant exists. Attorney-client communications are privileged, meaning the inquiry cannot be used against the client. An attorney may verify warrant status, explain the charges and potential consequences, and arrange a voluntary surrender if a warrant is confirmed. Voluntary surrender through counsel often results in faster bond processing and demonstrates good faith to the court.

6. Third-Party Background Check Services (Use Caution)

Commercial background check websites may display warrant information, but accuracy and currency vary significantly. These services charge fees for information that is available at no cost through official government sources. Members of the public are advised to verify any results obtained from commercial services through official channels such as the Alabama Administrative Office of Courts or the Houston County Sheriff's Office.

What Information You'll Need:

Full legal name
Any aliases or former names
Date of birth
Social Security number (helpful but not always required)
Previous addresses in Houston County

Important Warnings:

Risk of Immediate Arrest:

Checking in person may result in arrest if a warrant exists
Sheriff's deputies are obligated to execute active warrants upon identifying the subject
Individuals cannot "check and leave" if a warrant is confirmed in person
Consulting an attorney before any in-person inquiry is strongly advisable

Don't Delay:

Warrants do not expire and remain active indefinitely in most cases
Outstanding warrants may compound with additional failure-to-appear charges
A routine traffic stop can result in arrest on an outstanding warrant
Proactive resolution is preferable to an unplanned arrest

What NOT to Do:

Do not ignore a possible warrant
Do not flee or attempt to conceal one's whereabouts
Do not provide false information to law enforcement
Do not resist if arrested
Do not assume a warrant will expire or be dismissed without action

What Is a Search Warrant in Houston County?

A search warrant is a legal document issued by a judge or magistrate that authorizes law enforcement officers to search a specific location and seize designated items or evidence. In Houston County, Alabama, search warrants are issued by judges of the Twentieth Judicial Circuit and must comply with both federal constitutional requirements and Alabama state law.

Constitutional Basis:

The Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution prohibits unreasonable searches and seizures and requires that warrants be supported by probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation, and must particularly describe the place to be searched and the persons or things to be seized. The Alabama Constitution, Article I, Section 5, provides parallel protections under state law. A neutral magistrate or judge must independently review the evidence before any warrant is issued.

Legal Requirements Under Alabama Law:

Under Alabama Code § 15-5-2, a search warrant may be issued upon a showing of probable cause supported by affidavit. The warrant must:

Identify the specific location to be searched with particularity
Describe the specific items to be seized
Be based on a sworn affidavit establishing probable cause
Be reviewed and signed by a judge or magistrate
Be executed within the timeframe specified by the court

When Search Warrants Are Used:

Criminal investigations involving drug offenses, theft, or violent crimes
Recovery of stolen property or contraband
Seizure of digital evidence such as computers and mobile phones
Financial records in white-collar crime investigations
Evidence of any criminal offense where probable cause exists

Difference from Other Warrants:

Warrant Type	Purpose
Search Warrant	Authorizes law enforcement to search a location and seize property
Arrest Warrant	Authorizes law enforcement to arrest a specific person
Bench Warrant	Court order issued for failure to comply with a court directive

These warrant types are not interchangeable and serve distinct legal functions.

Are Warrants Public Records in Houston County?

Warrants are subject to Alabama's public records laws after execution, making them accessible to members of the public through official court and law enforcement channels. The Houston County Open Records Policy, adopted October 15, 2024, affirms the right of Alabama residents to inspect and obtain copies of public records within the custody and control of Houston County government. As stated in that policy, the county acts pursuant to the Alabama Open Records Act "to allow Alabama residents, as defined below, to inspect and take a copy of public records within the custody and control of" the county.

When Warrants Become Public:

Search Warrants:

Before execution: Search warrants are sealed and confidential to protect the integrity of the investigation, prevent destruction of evidence, and preserve the element of surprise.
After execution: The warrant, supporting affidavit, and inventory of seized items become part of the public court record and are accessible through the Circuit Clerk's office or the Alabama Administrative Office of Courts portal.

Arrest Warrants:

Active warrants: Active arrest warrants are public records. The subject's name, charges, bond amount, and issuing court are visible in law enforcement and court databases.
After arrest: Arrest warrants remain part of the permanent court case file and are accessible as public records.

Exceptions and Sealed Warrants:

Certain warrants may remain sealed by court order, including:

Warrants related to ongoing investigations
Grand jury proceedings
Cases involving confidential informants
Juvenile cases
National security matters
Cases where disclosure would compromise witness safety

The duration of sealing is determined by the presiding judge. Most sealed warrants eventually become public, though certain portions may be permanently redacted.

What Is Publicly Available:

Active arrest warrant information (searchable through official databases)
Executed search warrant documents and affidavits
Inventory of items seized pursuant to a search warrant
Court case files containing warrant information

What Is Restricted:

Unexecuted search warrants
Sealed investigative warrants
Confidential informant identities
Certain law enforcement investigative techniques
Grand jury materials

Under the Alabama Open Records Act, law enforcement agencies retain exemptions for records that would compromise active investigations or endanger individuals. The Houston County government departments page identifies the offices responsible for maintaining and providing access to public records.

How Much Does It Cost to Get Warrant Records in Houston County?

Members of the public may inspect warrant records and court case files at no charge. Fees apply when copies are requested. The following fee structure reflects current standard charges for public records in Houston County and through the Alabama court system.

Standard Copy Fees:

Record Type	Fee
Standard paper copies (per page)	$0.25–$1.00 per page
Certified copies of court documents	$1.00–$5.00 per document
Electronic copies (where available)	Varies by office
Court record search fee	No charge for self-service terminals

The Houston County Open Records Policy governs fees for records held by Houston County government. Under Alabama law, § 36-12-40 of the Alabama Code establishes the public's right to inspect and copy public writings, and fees charged must be reasonable and not exceed the actual cost of reproduction.

Fee Details:

Inspection of records: Free — members of the public may inspect records in person without charge
Paper copies: Charged per page; the exact rate is set by the custodial office
Certified copies: An additional certification fee applies when an official seal or attestation is required
Electronic records: Some offices provide electronic copies at reduced or no cost
Search fees: Houston County does not charge a separate search fee for standard public records requests

Accepted Payment Methods:

Cash
Money order
Check payable to the applicable court or county office
Credit or debit card (availability varies by office)

Fee Waivers:

Fee waivers may be available for indigent requesters or for requests made in the public interest. Requests for fee waivers must be submitted in writing to the custodial office with supporting documentation.

What Is Available at No Cost:

In-person inspection of court records at the Circuit Clerk's office
Online case searches through the Alabama Administrative Office of Courts portal
Inmate listing searches through the Houston County Sheriff's Office

What Types of Warrants in Houston County

Houston County courts and law enforcement agencies issue several distinct categories of warrants, each serving a specific legal purpose under Alabama law.

1. Arrest Warrants

An arrest warrant is a court order authorizing law enforcement to take a specific individual into custody based on probable cause that the person has committed a criminal offense. Arrest warrants are issued by judges of the Twentieth Judicial Circuit and remain active until executed or formally recalled by the court.

When Issued:

Felony charges have been filed by the prosecutor
A grand jury has returned an indictment
The suspect is not currently in custody
The subject presents a flight risk prior to formal charging
Serious misdemeanor charges warrant judicial authorization for arrest

Information Contained in an Arrest Warrant:

Subject's full legal name and physical description
Specific criminal charges and statute violations
Bond amount set by the court
Name of the issuing court and judge's signature
Identifying information including date of birth

How Executed:

Law enforcement locates the subject and effects the arrest
Arrest may occur at any location — home, workplace, or during a traffic stop
Subject is transported to the Houston County Jail, booked, and processed
A first appearance hearing is scheduled before a judge

2. Bench Warrants

A bench warrant is issued directly by a judge from the bench when a party fails to comply with a court order. Bench warrants are among the most common warrant types issued in Houston County.

Common Reasons for Issuance:

Failure to appear (FTA) for a scheduled court date
Failure to pay court-ordered fines or costs
Violation of probation terms
Contempt of court
Failure to complete community service or other court-ordered programs

Differences from Arrest Warrants:

Issued for court-related violations rather than new criminal offenses
Bond amounts are often lower than those set for new criminal charges
May be recalled if the underlying issue is resolved promptly
An attorney may file a motion to recall the warrant before the subject is arrested

Resolving Bench Warrants:

Members of the public with active bench warrants may contact the Houston County Circuit Court to inquire about options for resolution. An attorney may file a motion to recall the warrant, arrange a voluntary appearance, or negotiate payment of outstanding fines.

3. Search Warrants

A search warrant authorizes law enforcement to enter and search a specifically described location and to seize particular items of evidence. As required by Alabama Code § 15-5-2, the warrant must describe with particularity both the place to be searched and the items to be seized.

What May Be Searched:

Private residences and apartments
Vehicles
Commercial businesses
Storage units
Electronic devices including computers and mobile phones
Financial records and documents

Types of Items Seized:

Contraband and illegal substances
Stolen property
Weapons
Digital evidence
Documents and financial records
Instrumentalities or fruits of crime

Time Limitations:

Search warrants must be executed within the timeframe specified by the issuing judge
Alabama law requires timely execution; warrants not executed within the authorized period become void
Daytime execution is standard unless the judge specifically authorizes nighttime service

4. No-Knock Warrants

A no-knock warrant is a specialized search warrant that permits law enforcement to enter a premises without prior announcement. These warrants are subject to a higher standard of judicial review and are issued only when specific exigent circumstances exist, such as a credible risk that evidence will be destroyed, danger to officers, or the presence of armed and violent suspects. No-knock warrants are subject to additional documentation requirements and judicial oversight in Alabama.

5. Governor's Warrants (Extradition)

A governor's warrant is issued when another state requests the extradition of a fugitive located in Alabama. Upon receipt of a formal extradition request, the Alabama Governor issues a governor's warrant authorizing the arrest and transfer of the subject to the requesting state. The subject may challenge extradition or waive the process and consent to transfer. The subject is held in custody pending completion of the extradition proceedings.

6. Capias Warrants (Civil Contempt)

A capias warrant is issued in civil proceedings, most commonly for failure to comply with court orders related to child support or civil contempt. Although arising from non-criminal matters, a capias warrant authorizes arrest. Release is typically conditioned on payment of a specified purge amount.

7. Material Witness Warrants

A material witness warrant compels a witness to appear in court when the witness has failed to comply with a subpoena. These warrants are issued infrequently but may be used when a witness is actively avoiding service or has failed to appear after being properly served.

Traffic Warrants:

Traffic warrants are issued for failure to appear on traffic citations, unpaid traffic fines, or suspended license violations. Bond amounts are typically lower than those for criminal warrants, and resolution is often straightforward through the appropriate traffic court.

Probation and Parole Violation Warrants:

Probation violation warrants are issued upon the recommendation of a probation officer when a supervised individual has violated the terms of supervision. These warrants often carry no bond or a high bond amount and require a hearing before the sentencing judge. A finding of violation may result in revocation of probation and imposition of the original sentence.

Federal Warrants:

Federal warrants are issued by federal judges of the United States District Court for the Middle District of Alabama and are separate from county-level warrants. Federal warrants are enforced by federal agencies including the FBI, DEA, ATF, and U.S. Marshals Service. Federal warrant information does not appear in county databases and must be verified through federal court resources.

What Warrants in Houston County Contain

All warrants issued in Houston County contain standardized information required by Alabama law and constitutional mandate.

Header Information:

Court seal and full name of the issuing court
The phrase "In the Name of the State of Alabama"
Case number and court division
Name of the issuing judge
Warrant number and issue date

Subject Identification:

Full legal name and any known aliases
Date of birth
Physical description including height, weight, race, eye color, hair color, and identifying marks
Last known address
Driver's license number or Social Security number (where applicable)

Legal Authority:

Citation to applicable Alabama statute
Command directed "To any law enforcement officer in the State of Alabama"
Statement of the court's jurisdiction

Charges Section (Arrest Warrants):

Specific criminal offense(s) charged
Statute number(s) violated
Degree of offense (felony class or misdemeanor level)
Number of counts
Date of the alleged offense

Probable Cause Statement:

Summary of facts supporting the warrant
Reference to the supporting affidavit or criminal complaint
Officer's sworn attestation
Witness information (names may be redacted)

Bond Information:

Bond amount set by the court
Type of bond (cash, surety, personal recognizance, or no bond)
Conditions of release if bond is granted
Special restrictions or conditions

Premises Description (Search Warrants):

Complete street address of the location to be searched
Physical description of the structure including color, type, and distinguishing features
Unit or apartment number where applicable
Cross streets and GPS coordinates in some cases

Items to Be Seized (Search Warrants):

Specific description of evidence sought
Categories of items including contraband, stolen property, digital devices, and documents
Nexus between the items and the alleged criminal offense

Probable Cause Affidavit (Search Warrants):

Detailed sworn statement by the investigating officer
Summary of the investigation including surveillance, witness interviews, and prior law enforcement contacts
Explanation of why the evidence is likely located at the specified premises
Timeliness of the information supporting probable cause
Informant information (may be redacted to protect identity)

Time Limitations (Search Warrants):

Date of issuance and expiration date
Authorization for daytime or nighttime execution
Return date by which the warrant must be returned to the court

Return Requirements:

Date and time of execution
Inventory of all items seized
List of persons present during execution
Signature of the executing officer

Bench Warrant Specifics:

Identification of the court order that was violated
Original case number and charges
Court date that was missed or obligation that was unfulfilled
Bond amount and conditions for release
Purge amount if applicable

Judge's Signature and Seal:

Original or authorized electronic signature of the issuing judge
Court seal
Date of signing and judge's printed name

Confidential Portions:

Informant identities are routinely redacted
Ongoing investigative techniques may be sealed
Witness addresses and identifying information may be withheld
Portions subject to court-ordered sealing will not appear in public copies

What Is NOT Typically Contained in Warrants:

Complete police investigation reports
All witness statements
Defendant's statements or admissions
Law enforcement strategy or tactical plans
Unrelated case information

Who Issues Warrants in Houston County

Warrants in Houston County may only be issued by a neutral judicial officer as required by the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and Alabama state law. Law enforcement officers and prosecutors do not have independent authority to issue warrants.

Judicial Officers with Authority to Issue Warrants:

1. Circuit Court Judges – Twentieth Judicial Circuit

Circuit Court judges hold full authority to issue all categories of warrants in Houston County, including felony arrest warrants, search warrants, bench warrants, and extradition-related warrants. The Twentieth Judicial Circuit serves Houston County.

Houston County Circuit Court
114 N Oates Street
Dothan, AL 36303
Phone: (334) 677-4800
Houston County – Twentieth Circuit Court of Alabama

2. District Court Judges

District Court judges in Houston County have authority to issue misdemeanor arrest warrants, traffic warrants, search warrants, and bench warrants in cases within their jurisdiction. District Court handles lower-level criminal matters and traffic offenses.

3. Magistrates

Magistrates are appointed judicial officers authorized to issue initial arrest warrants, search warrants, and bench warrants. Magistrates are available after regular court hours to review warrant applications for urgent matters. Officers may present probable cause by telephone or in person to an on-call magistrate when circumstances require immediate action.

Who Requests Warrants:

Houston County Sheriff's Office:
Deputies and investigators conduct criminal investigations, prepare sworn affidavits establishing probable cause, and present warrant applications to the appropriate judicial officer.

Houston County Sheriff's Office
411 N Foster Street
Dothan, AL 36303
Phone: (334) 677-4882
Houston County Sheriff's Office

Dothan Police Department:
City police officers and detectives investigate offenses within the city limits of Dothan and present warrant applications to the court.

Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA):
State investigators and the Department of Public Safety may request warrants in cases involving state-level offenses or multi-jurisdictional investigations.

Houston County District Attorney's Office:
The District Attorney's office reviews investigations, determines charges, and requests arrest warrants. Prosecutors present evidence to the grand jury when indictments are sought.

Houston County District Attorney's Office
114 N Oates Street
Dothan, AL 36303
Phone: (334) 677-4747
Houston County Government

The Warrant Issuance Process:

Investigation: Law enforcement gathers evidence and establishes probable cause through interviews, surveillance, and physical evidence collection.
Affidavit Preparation: The investigating officer prepares a sworn affidavit detailing the facts supporting probable cause and identifying the suspect or location.
Presentation to Judge: The officer or prosecutor presents the affidavit to a judge or magistrate, either in person or through an authorized electronic submission process.
Judicial Review: The judge independently reviews the affidavit to determine whether probable cause exists and whether constitutional requirements are satisfied.
Warrant Signed or Denied: If probable cause is established, the judge signs the warrant, which becomes effective immediately. If denied, the officer may supplement the affidavit or decline to proceed.
Execution: The signed warrant is distributed to law enforcement and entered into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database. Officers execute the warrant by arresting the subject or conducting the authorized search.

Electronic Warrants:

Alabama authorizes the use of electronic warrant systems in certain jurisdictions. Under an e-warrant system, officers submit affidavits electronically, and judges review and sign warrants digitally. Electronic warrants carry the same legal authority as paper warrants.

Who CANNOT Issue Warrants:

Law enforcement officers acting alone, without judicial authorization
Prosecutors without a judicial officer's review and signature
Administrative agencies (with narrow statutory exceptions)
Private citizens

How To Find Outstanding Warrants in Houston County

Outstanding warrants are warrants that have been issued by a court but have not yet been executed — meaning the subject has not been arrested or the search has not been conducted. Outstanding warrants remain active in law enforcement databases indefinitely and may be executed at any time.

Methods to Find Outstanding Warrants:

1. Online Warrant and Case Search

The Alabama Administrative Office of Courts provides free public access to Alabama state trial court records through its online portal. Members of the public may search by name and date of birth to identify active cases and warrant status across all Alabama counties, including Houston County. The Houston County Circuit Court case records are included in this statewide system.

Search results may include:

Subject name and date of birth
Warrant type and charges
Bond amount
Issue date and case number
Current case status

Recently issued warrants may not appear immediately due to processing time. Sealed warrants will not appear in public search results.

2. Houston County Sheriff's Office – Direct Inquiry

Houston County Sheriff's Office
411 N Foster Street
Dothan, AL 36303
Phone: (334) 677-4882
Phone: (334) 677-4808
Houston County Jail: (334) 712-0762
Houston County Sheriff's Office

Members of the public may contact the Sheriff's Office by telephone to request a warrant check. Staff will search the database by name and date of birth. Warning: In-person inquiries at the Sheriff's Office carry a risk of immediate arrest if an active warrant is confirmed.

3. Houston County Inmate Listing

The Houston County inmate listing allows members of the public to search for individuals currently held at the Houston County Jail. This resource confirms whether a subject is currently in custody but does not display outstanding warrants for individuals not yet arrested.

4. Circuit Clerk's Office

Houston County Circuit Clerk
114 N Oates Street
Dothan, AL 36303
Phone: (334) 677-4800
Houston County Circuit Court

The Circuit Clerk's office maintains court case files that include bench warrant status. Public access terminals are available for self-service searches. Staff may assist members of the public in locating case information. The Clerk's office will not initiate an arrest, but any active warrant remains enforceable.

5. Through an Attorney

Retaining an attorney is the safest method for individuals who suspect an active warrant may exist against them. Communications between attorney and client are privileged. An attorney may verify warrant status through official channels without triggering an immediate arrest, negotiate bond terms, and arrange a voluntary surrender at a time and manner that minimizes disruption.

6. Statewide Resources

The Alabama Administrative Office of Courts portal provides access to records across all Alabama judicial circuits. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency maintains statewide law enforcement databases that may include warrant information accessible through official inquiry channels.

Search Multiple Jurisdictions:

Warrants may be issued by different courts and agencies. A thorough search should include:

Houston County Sheriff's Office
Dothan Police Department (for city-level warrants)
All counties where the subject has resided or had legal matters
Traffic courts and criminal courts separately
Probation offices if the subject is under supervision

Interpreting Search Results:

If a warrant is found:

Record the warrant number, charges, bond amount, issuing court, and issue date
Do not ignore the result
Consult an attorney before taking any further action
Do not attempt to flee or conceal one's location

If no warrant is found:

Verify through multiple sources, as recently issued warrants may not yet appear
Consider attorney verification for definitive confirmation

If results are unclear:

Common names may return multiple results; verify by date of birth and other identifiers
Contact the court directly to confirm

Limitations of Online Searches:

Warrants issued within the past 24–72 hours may not yet appear in online databases
Sealed warrants are not visible to the public
Federal warrants are not included in county or state databases
Errors or outdated entries are possible; official verification is recommended

What to Do If a Warrant Is Found:

Do not panic; record all warrant details
Do not attempt to resolve the matter without legal counsel
Contact an attorney immediately
Do not discuss the matter with anyone other than your attorney
Do not turn yourself in without legal representation present

An attorney may arrange voluntary surrender, which is preferable to an unplanned arrest. Voluntary surrender demonstrates responsibility to the court, may result in faster bond processing, and allows legal counsel to be present from the outset.

How Long Do Warrants Last In Houston County?

Warrants issued in Houston County do not expire under Alabama law. Under current law, arrest warrants and bench warrants remain active and enforceable indefinitely until one of the following occurs: the subject is arrested and the warrant is executed, the issuing court formally recalls or quashes the warrant, or the underlying charges are dismissed by the prosecutor or court. There is no statutory time limit on the enforceability of an outstanding arrest or bench warrant in Alabama.

Search warrants are the exception to this rule. Under Alabama Code § 15-5-5, a search warrant must be executed within a specified number of days from the date of issuance as directed by the issuing judge. If a search warrant is not executed within the authorized period, it becomes void and law enforcement must obtain a new warrant before conducting the search.

The practical consequence of the indefinite duration of arrest and bench warrants is significant. A warrant issued years or even decades ago remains fully enforceable. Individuals with outstanding warrants may be arrested during any encounter with law