Forgot to pay a traffic ticket or show up in court and are afraid you’ll have to face adverse consequences? You’re not alone. According to Delaware Courts, at the end of March, there were 55,000 cases of outstanding capiases and warrants.
People with an active warrant issued by Delaware courts or by police will have an opportunity to resolve the matter during Delaware Courts’ Safe Surrender Day at the Leonard L. Williams Justice Center from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, May 12.
During Safe Surrender, a person with a capias ordering their appearance in court or arrest by police can have the order dismissed once the case has been addressed by the issuing court or police agency.
The event is described as “safe” because it allows those with an active capias, also called a bench warrant, or police-issued arrest warrant, to voluntarily turn themselves in without fear of retribution.
Sen. Darius Brown, an event supporter, said “We want to make sure that individuals no longer have to look over their shoulder with minor offenses, with warrants and capiases and they’re able to live their lives.”
Anyone who wants to find out if they have an active capias or a warrant for their arrest, can call 1-866-751-5327 or check online at the DELJIS Online Wanted Person Review.
Persons wanted for missing a court date and failure to pay traffic fines, child support or other justice-related obligations will be given a chance to address the issue with these participating courts:
- Superior Court
- Court of Common Pleas
- Family Court
- Justice of the Peace Court
Safe Surrender was last held in 2009 when more than 1,000 warrants were resolved in three days. It is anticipated that this year’s one-day event will clear 750 warrants.
Will you need a lawyer?
Safe Surrender is not amnesty. How a case is handled will depend on each person’s circumstance.
Although appearing voluntarily will be viewed with favor, someone charged with a violent felony may get taken into custody. Individuals wanted for a nonviolent misdemeanor are more likely to be released after their case is processed.
Defendants with a private attorney should contact them prior to the event for advice. The Office of Defense Services will have staff present to provide legal counsel to those who seek services.
What will the day look like?
Attendees will be directed to the jury assembly room. Participants will need to provide their name and birth date so court staff can access their case(s) and direct them where to go.
People wanted on a capias for failing to attend a scheduled court proceeding should expect to appear before a judge so a new court date can be set.
For those with warrants for failing to pay child support, fines or fees, they’ll be able to either pay what they owe or make arrangements to pay.
Individuals with a case under the jurisdiction of the Justice of the Peace court will have the opportunity to speak with a deputy attorney general or the police agency that issued the citation.
Additional support services and childcare
Before entering the Justice Center, various churches, nonprofit organizations and community groups will be stationed in the courtyard to provide support services.
Vending machines offering snacks and beverages are in the jury assembly room as well as the lower level of the courthouse.
If bringing a child, a small play area for older children next to the jury assembly room will be available, but no childcare will be provided. Parents are responsible for supervising their children and providing for infants.
Consequences for not responding to a warrant
A person wanted on an outstanding warrant will have a few concerns to keep in mind.
If stopped by the police they will be taken into custody and brought before a judge.
If a capias for failure to pay was issued, the wanted person’s state tax refund will be intercepted and a $25 charge will be added. If your driver’s license was suspended, you won’t be able to renew your driver’s license.
Parking and entry into the courthouse
The Leonard L. Williams Justice Center is located at 500 N. King St. in downtown Wilmington.
High turnout for Safe Surrender is anticipated so be prepared for heavy vehicle traffic around the courthouse. There is limited street parking in the area, as well as paid parking at the Justice Center, but it to probably best to rely on public transit or a ride.
No electronic devices of any kind are allowed in the courthouse. Lockers to store personal items are available outside of the courthouse in the Justice Center parking garage.
There is a security screening just beyond the front doors of the building. There is a dress code for what’s considered suitable courtroom attire. Participants will be turned away if not dressed appropriately.
Only one person will be allowed to accompany the wanted person.
Contact reporter Anitra Johnson at ajohnson@delawareonline.com with tips and story ideas. Join our Facebook group – Delaware Voices Uplifted to learn what’s happening in communities in Delaware. Become a subscriber to access more stories and the best in local reporting.
