Legal Question in Criminal Law in Washington

Domestic flight w/ warrant??

I recently missed a courtdate (1 day late, sched 4/25, showed 4/26) Upon arrival I pulled my hearing notice from girlfriends car (where it was stored, me = suspended DL. She takes me to court, safe place to keep papers) and realized I was a day late. I called my PD and left message (I missed court, why didn't you call??)

BS details aside, a FTA warrant was issued ( no PR, $2000). I attempted to quash and a hearing was set ( 5/13). I have planned to fly back to the east coast to repair and sell my house. I originally planned to fly before the court date, but wonder if new 9-11 security measures will show my warrant and 'modify' my travel plans.

note: I will have to travel w/ some tools in a cheked bag( NOT carry-on) I'm sure these tools will raise a security eyebrow. (pneumatic roofing nailer (air operated), shears, razor knife, other misc. 'threats')

Do I just go, or do I delay until after court. I DESPERATELY need to sell house soon ($$$$). I also have a very hectic schedule (music business) of contracted jobs, which will further delay my selling plans (6 weeks) if I cannot travel the week prior to my court date.


Asked on 4/29/05, 7:05 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
James J. White, attorney Law Offices of Smith & White, PLLC

Re: Domestic flight w/ warrant??

Never in the past would a bench warrant for a suspended driver's license cause you any trouble at the airport. I cannot dispositively tell you that it will not though because things are changing rapidly in the post 9-11 security world. Perhaps you desperately need to go to see the house but you do not need to take the tools? I didn't quite understand if you were going to miss your warrant quash date. If so, you need to get in immediate contact with your public defender and provide documentation like a copy of your air ticket and anything substantiating that you are traveling to sell your house.

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Answered on 5/04/05, 12:12 am


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