A Bench Warrant in Howard County Is Serious — But You Still Have Options
A bench warrant or failure to appear (FTA) issued in Howard County, Maryland means you can be arrested at any moment—during a traffic stop, at home, or even while traveling. Bench warrants do not expire, and once active, they remain in effect until they are formally recalled by the court.
The right legal strategy can often prevent an unexpected arrest and help resolve the warrant quickly, safely, and efficiently.
The Law Offices of David R. Waranch represents clients throughout Howard County, assisting with warrant recalls, FTA resolutions, case reopenings, and defense of underlying charges. We understand how the courts in Ellicott City handle warrant matters—and how to take the correct steps to protect you.
You’re not alone. We help clients daily facing the same situation—and we know how to resolve it.
Major Cities We Serve in Howard County
- Ellicott City
- Columbia
- Laurel
- Elkridge
- Fulton
- Savage
- Jessup
- Clarksville
- Glenelg
- Other surrounding communities
Whether your case originated in Ellicott City, Columbia, or anywhere within Howard County, we understand the local court procedures and know how to move your case forward.
Why Bench Warrants Happen in Howard County
Howard County judges typically issue bench warrants for the following reasons:
- Failure to appear for a court date
- Missing a probation violation (VOP) hearing
- Failure to pay fines or restitution
- Not completing court-ordered programs such as treatment, classes, or community service
- Violating probation terms
- Issues related to MVA compliance or licensing problems
Many FTAs are caused by medical emergencies, mailing errors, miscommunication, or transportation difficulties. Regardless of the reason, the warrant remains active until the court recalls it.
For statewide guidance, see the Maryland Judiciary Bench Warrant FAQ.
How a Lawyer Can Help Resolve a Howard County Bench Warrant
An active warrant places you at risk of arrest anywhere in the county—from Route 29 and Route 40 to I-70 and major local roads. Our office can often intervene before that happens with assistance from an experienced Howard County traffic lawyer.
- File a Motion to Recall or Quash the Warrant — request cancellation and replacement with a new court date.
- Explain Your Situation to the Court — including emergencies, address errors, or unavoidable conflicts.
- Prevent Arrest When Possible — many clients resolve their warrant without being taken into custody.
- Restore the Case to Active Status — allowing us to properly defend the underlying charge.
- Represent You at All Hearings — communicate with Howard County prosecutors, clerks, and judges on your behalf.
Our priority is to resolve the warrant quickly, protect your freedom, and guide you toward the best possible outcome with guidance from a knowledgeable Maryland traffic defense attorney.
Court Locations We Serve in Howard County
- Ellicott City District Court — 3451 Courthouse Drive
- Howard County Circuit Court — 9250 Judicial Way, Ellicott City
We appear regularly in these courthouses and understand the local procedures that influence how judges handle motions to recall warrants.
Related Services in Howard County
- Howard County Driving While Suspended Lawyer
- Howard County Driving Without Insurance Lawyer
- Howard County Reckless Driving Lawyer
- Howard County MVA Hearing Lawyer
- Howard County Hit & Run Lawyer
These county-level pages will be fully interlinked as soon as they are created.
Other Maryland Counties We Serve
- Montgomery County
- Baltimore County
- Anne Arundel County
- Prince George’s County
- Frederick County
- Queen Anne’s County
Contact a Howard County Bench Warrant Lawyer Today
A bench warrant will not go away on its own. Taking action now gives you the best chance of resolving the issue without being arrested.
📞 Call 301-563-9575 or visit www.davidwaranch.com to request a free consultation.
Law Offices of David R. Waranch — Maryland Traffic & Criminal Defense Lawyers.
Hablamos Español.