Living in Fear of an Old Warrant? You’re Not Alone.
If you have an old arrest warrant in Florida and are afraid to go to court because of your immigration status, you are not the only one. Many people live in silence for years, sometimes decades afraid that resolving a criminal case will lead to ICE involvement, detention, or deportation.
As a Florida criminal defense attorney, I’ve helped people clear bench warrants and arrest warrants from 10, 20, even 35 years ago often without them ever having to step foot in a courtroom. You can resolve your case safely. The key is understanding the process, knowing your rights, and having an experienced lawyer on your side.
Why Old Warrants Are So Dangerous for Immigrants
If you were arrested years ago and never returned to court, or if you missed a court date, a warrant for your arrest was likely issued. That warrant stays active until it’s resolved even decades later.
Many immigrants (documented or undocumented) fear that if they try to clear the warrant, they’ll be reported to immigration authorities. But letting a warrant sit unresolved only increases the risk of:
Being arrested during a traffic stop or background check
Losing immigration opportunities due to a pending charge
Triggering ICE involvement during an unrelated interaction
Case Highlight: 1990 Warrant Resolved After 35 Years
Recently, we helped a woman who had been living in fear since 1990, when a bench warrant was issued in her name. For 35 years, she avoided contact with law enforcement, never felt safe, and was always looking over her shoulder.
We resolved the warrant, addressed the underlying charge, and gave her peace of mind without her being deported or detained. Every case is different, but with careful legal planning, you don’t have to stay stuck in the shadows.
What You Can Do Without Risking Everything?
You may be able to:
Resolve your case without appearing in court
Have a lawyer quash the warrant on your behalf
Work with both criminal and immigration attorneys to protect your status
Clear your record and finally move forward with your life
If your case is in Florida, I can help you review court records, analyze risk, and create a legal strategy that protects you. The most dangerous thing is doing nothing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I clear an old arrest warrant in Florida without getting deported?
Yes, depending on your case, a criminal defense attorney can often file a motion to quash the warrant or resolve the case without triggering immigration enforcement. Each situation is unique, so you should consult both a criminal and immigration attorney before taking any action.
What happens if I do nothing about the warrant?
The warrant will remain active, which means you could be arrested at any time, during a traffic stop, background check, or even a routine green card renewal. Waiting only increases your legal risk.
Will ICE know if I go to court to fix the warrant?
Not automatically. Florida courts do not generally notify ICE of warrant resolutions. But if your name is already flagged in certain databases, the risk is real. That’s why legal strategy and attorney representation are critical.
Can a lawyer go to court for me?
Often, yes. In many misdemeanor or older non-violent cases, your attorney can appear on your behalf and work to lift the warrant or negotiate a favorable resolution.
Don’t Let Fear Control Your Future
If you’re living in fear because of an old Florida arrest warrant, I can help. You don’t have to hide forever. And you don’t have to go through this alone.
Call me today for a confidential consultation or fill out the contact form below. I’ll explain your options clearly and help you take the first step toward freedom.
