bench warrant

noun

, Law.

1. a warrant issued or ordered by a judge or court for the apprehension of an offender.

bench warrant

noun

1. a warrant issued by a judge or court directing that an offender be apprehended

Word History and Origins

Origin of bench warrant¹

First recorded in 1690–1700

Example Sentences

To keep down the number of inmates and court hearings, the court is organizing a virtual check-in for people to resolve outstanding misdemeanor bench warrants.

From Washington Post

He was immediately committed under a bench warrant, but was liberated almost at once.

From Project Gutenberg

A presentment was made against McNaughton, the usual process was moved for and a bench warrant issued.

From Project Gutenberg

Why not followed by a bench warrant, or a requisition from the Governor of Pennsylvania?

From Project Gutenberg

They were then taken upon a bench warrant charging them with treason which superseded the writ.

From Project Gutenberg

Here is the paper: it is a bench warrant of commitment on a charge of conspiracy, and Stanton is to be locked up.

From Project Gutenberg