bench warrant

American  

noun

Law.

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

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bench warrant British  

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of bench warrant

First recorded in 1690–1700

Example Sentences

The panel said Monguia abused his authority in some cases — including in September 2023, when a woman voluntarily showed up for a bench warrant with her child.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 5, 2025

But given Gaddis had no criminal record after the carjacking case was dismissed, it’s unlikely police would have prioritized arresting a defendant who was wanted on a misdemeanor bench warrant.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 18, 2025

He absconded, a bench warrant was issued, and he disappeared to Scotland.

From BBC • Feb. 24, 2024

The judge issued a bench warrant for Ye’s arrest on Oct.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 28, 2023

Judge Taylor caught her at it one day and threatened her with a bench warrant.

From "Go Set a Watchman: A Novel" by Harper Lee