Oklahoma Warrant Search

A warrant search allows citizens, crime victims, law enforcement agencies, lawyers, and members of the public to view information regarding people with active warrants in Oklahoma. This is possible because law enforcement agencies tend to enter information about all warrants issued to them in their databases. A warrant search is essential for several reasons:

• Personal safety: Knowing the presence of any active warrants under one's name or for associates helps ensure personal safety and prevents unexpected encounters with law enforcement.
• Legal compliance: Individuals or those associated with them may want to confirm if there are any outstanding warrants to ensure compliance with the law and promptly address any legal issues.
• Employment and housing: Employers and landlords often perform background checks, which may involve warrant searches. This helps them assess whether prospective tenants or employees have a history of criminal activity and can be trusted to uphold safety and security standards.

What is a Warrant?

In Oklahoma law, a warrant is a legal document issued by a magistrate authorizing law enforcement officials to take specific actions. Oklahoma has three common types of warrants: bench, arrest, and search warrants.

Are Warrants Public Records in Oklahoma?

Yes. Per the Oklahoma Open Records Act, all public bodies' records are open to any person for inspection or copying during regular business hours. Specifically, the Oklahoma Statutes §51-24A.8 states that law enforcement agencies must make available for public inspection and copying all disposition of warrants. However, unexecuted search warrants and warrants whose subjects are juveniles are deemed confidential in Oklahoma.

How Do I Look Up Warrants in Oklahoma?

Record seekers can utilize third-party sites to look up warrants in Oklahoma. These databases require users to enter a person’s first and last names in the search boxes. The cost of accessing these databases can vary depending on the provider and the depth of information provided. Some sites offer basic search functionality for free, while others may charge a fee for more comprehensive results or access to additional features like downloading a complete report. The fee could be applied as a one-time payment or monthly subscription, including the provision of a free trial. During the trial period, users might encounter an initial payment ranging from $2.95 to $4.95, followed by a subscription fee of approximately $19.95 to $24.95 per month if they opt to continue their subscription.

Third-party sites can offer convenience by providing a centralized platform for searching warrants across multiple jurisdictions. However, users should exercise caution and verify the accuracy of the information obtained, as third-party databases may only sometimes be up-to-date or comprehensive.

What is a Search Warrant in Oklahoma?

According to Oklahoma Statutes §22-1221, a search warrant constitutes a written order, issued in the state's name and signed by a magistrate, instructing a peace officer to search for personal property and present it before the magistrate.

• Are Search Warrants Public Records in Oklahoma?

  Yes, search warrants in Oklahoma are generally considered public records under 51 O.S. § 24A.8(6). As such, they are typically available for inspection and copying by members of the public. However, search warrants are not open to the public during issuance. They only become public records after execution.

• How Long Does it Take to Get a Search Warrant in Oklahoma?

  In Oklahoma, a magistrate will issue a search warrant immediately a probable cause is determined. Therefore, the length of time it takes to establish probable cause determines how quickly a law enforcement officer can get a search warrant.

• How Long Does a Search Warrant Last

  According to Oklahoma Statutes 22-1231, a search warrant must be executed and returned to the issuing magistrate within ten (10) days. If not executed within this period, the warrant becomes void.

What is a Bench Warrant in Oklahoma?

Per OK Stat. §22-454, a judge or magistrate issues a bench warrant against an individual who fails to appear in court for a civil or criminal matter. Like other warrants, it empowers law enforcement to arrest the person at any time. Per Ok Stat. §22-968, a bench warrant can be served in any county in Oklahoma and need not be signed by the magistrate in the served county. A bench warrant must include:

• The suspect's or defendant's name
• Date of issuance
• Court location
• Signature of the judge or magistrate

What is an Arrest Warrant in Oklahoma?

Per Oklahoma Statutes §22-172, an arrest warrant is a written order signed by a magistrate directing law enforcement to apprehend a defendant. Arrest warrants are issued only when a complaint verified by oath or affirmation is filed with the magistrate, and there is probable cause to believe a crime has been committed and the defendant is guilty of it (Oklahoma Statutes §22-171).

How to Check if You Have a Warrant in Oklahoma

Law enforcement agencies in Oklahoma provide various methods of checking warrant information. The most common methods are by phone or in person. For example, individuals can call the Oklahoma City Municipal Court Warrant Office at (405) 297-3946 to check warrants during business hours (8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday). Requesters should be willing to provide basic information about the subject of the warrant. Information like name or birthdate would help facilitate the search. In-person requesters should visit the law enforcement agency with their IDs.

Can You Check Warrants Online in Oklahoma?

Individuals seeking active warrants in Oklahoma can access online resources provided by County Sheriff's Offices. For example, the Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office has a Warrant Search portal that can be used to check warrant information electronically. The search criteria primarily include the individual's name (last and first name). Search results typically include the full name of the person with the warrant, date of birth, case number, bond amount, warrant issuance date, and charges.

How To Find Out If You Have a Warrant for Free

Individuals can take the following steps without charge when trying to find out if they have a warrant:

• Use the warrants search tool on most law enforcement agency websites
• Call the nearest local police department
• Visit the nearest law enforcement agency during business hours

How to Find Out if Someone Has a Warrant Online For Free in Oklahoma

Individuals can conduct a free online search to determine if someone in Oklahoma has a warrant by utilizing local law enforcement agency databases. For example, individuals can find warrant records at no cost using the Warrant Search portal provided by the Tulsa Police Department. Typically, such inquiries have no restrictions, as warrants are considered public records in Oklahoma, except in cases where warrant records are deemed confidential.

How Long Does a Warrant Stay Active in Oklahoma?

After a judge or magistrate issues a warrant, it stays active until the suspect resolves it or the judge or magistrate cancels it. The warrant's validity depends on the type of charge. For example, a search warrant is only valid for ten (10) days. If a case is affected by a statute of limitations, the warrant may become stale. However, arrest warrants issued for felony matters may never expire.

How Do I Find Out If I Have a Federal Warrant?

Some federal law enforcement agencies allow the public to conduct warrant searches through their websites. For instance, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) provides a "Most Wanted" list where individuals can access warrant information on fugitives. This list allows users to filter results by year, title, description, or category. Typically, search results include a downloadable poster containing the fugitive’s warrant details. Additionally, individuals may seek information about federal warrants by consulting with a federal criminal defense attorney, who may have access to resources for verifying the existence of a warrant.