Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

I was arrested at Bob Hope Airport in early Feb. for being in unlawful posession of an auto. I was booked in jail and released on a 20K bond. The car was reported stolen in Ventura County so Burbank decided not to press charges.

I spoke to a detective in Ventura County on Friday and he said that the Ventura DA decided to press charges. Apparently the rental car company always presses charges in these situations. He told me that a felony warrant had been issued. The detective said that based on the information that I gace him and the fact that I had already been arrested and posted bond that he would not arrest me. He told me to go to the Ventura Courthouse and the would issue a court date.

My question is am I risking arrest again and will I have to pay another bond when I go to the courthouse in Ventura. I would rather do this on my own than use an attorney.

Thank you.


Asked on 4/29/12, 10:21 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
Theresa Hofmeister Theresa Hofmeister, Attorney At Law

If I understand this correctly, you're planning on representing yourself in a felony case? That would not be smart, although the judge may allow you to, if you insist. You would either hire an attorney, or if you cannot hire one, you may ask to have one appointed at the arraignment.

As far as the warrant goes, if you have a bond posted and have that paperwork with you (and/or the bailbonds agent) you should not have to post one again, unless the bail is raised for some reason and/or the bond needs to be reassumed. Contact the bail bonds agent, tell them charges where filed and find out the status from their end.

You have heard the saying that someone who represents himself has a fool for a client? (and an attorney.) You need an attorney on a felony bench warrant matter; it is not optional. Good luck!

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Answered on 4/29/12, 6:06 pm
Anthony Roach Law Office of Anthony A. Roach

You're incredibly foolish to insist on representing yourself in a felony case. If you cannot afford an attorney, you have the right to ask the court to appoint one for you.

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Answered on 4/30/12, 10:48 am


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