Utah Warrant Search

A Utah warrant search is a procedure that allows interested persons to access information about warrants that courts within the state have issued. Information obtained from a warrant search may be used to ascertain whether a person has violated a court order or is wanted for criminal activity. A warrant search may be conducted by judges, employers, law enforcement officers, lawyers, landlords, lenders, or any interested individual. This helps to determine if a suspect, prospective employee, or potential tenant is named on an ongoing or outstanding warrant.

The Utah Department of Public Safety provides a Statewide Warrant Search service where information about wanted individuals is maintained. Several law enforcement agencies within the state also provide warrant information to interested individuals. Warrant searches can also be performed through third-party platforms.

What is a Warrant?

The Utah State Court defines a warrant as an official directive from a judge or magistrate that grants the police authorization to search a location and confiscate some particular items they find there or to detain or arrest a specific individual. Utah judges usually issue search, arrest, and bench warrants.

Are Warrants Public Records in Utah?

Yes. The Government Records Access and Management Act permits the dissemination of warrant records because they are public documents. Consequently, anyone in Utah may request to view or get copies of a warrant from any law enforcement agency during normal business hours. Record seekers must note that search warrants are sealed at issuance but become public after execution.

How Do I Look Up Warrants in Utah?

Members of the public who wish to look up warrants in Utah can do so by visiting any of the available third-party websites. Information required for a warrant lookup on third-party websites typically includes an individual's last and first name. Some third-party sites provide individuals access to their databases at no cost. However, anyone seeking an in-depth and exhaustive report may need to pay a fee, usually below $5. Services involving monthly or yearly subscriptions may require more fees depending on the frequency of searches performed.

Third-party online platforms compile warrant records from various government sources. This enables users to search simultaneously for warrants issued in different jurisdictions, such as other U.S. states and counties. As a result, third-party websites are the best place to begin a warrant search. However, an individual may need to verify the credibility and completeness of results by comparing data obtained from third-party sources with official government resources.

What is a Search Warrant in Utah?

The Utah State Court Rule 40(a)(3) defines a search warrant as an order given to a peace officer by a magistrate acting on behalf of the state. It provides specific information on the item, location, or person to be searched and the property or evidence that should be seized. A search warrant can be an original written or recorded warrant or any copy, printout, fax, or other replica that the magistrate who issued the warrant intended to have the same legal force as the original.

• Are Search Warrants Public Records in Utah?

  Yes. Per Utah State Court Rule 40 (i)(1), search warrants are public records. However, search warrants and the application, affidavits, and recorded testimony on which the warrant is based only become public after 20 days of issuance.

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

  No predetermined timeline is provided for a peace officer to obtain a search warrant from the court magistrate. Peace officers will only be given a search warrant if they can demonstrate to a magistrate or judge that they have reasonable grounds for suspicion.

• How Long Does a Search Warrant Last?

  A search warrant in Utah remains valid for ten (10) days from the date of issuance. Should a search warrant not be carried out within this timeframe, it will be nullified and reverted to the magistrate or court as unexecuted.

What is a Bench Warrant in Utah?

Per Utah Code Section 77-7-19, a bench warrant is a document that the court issues due to a defendant's non-appearance at a scheduled court date or failure to pay a fine. The defendant might be placed under arrest and brought into custody, or in certain situations, a bail arrangement could be negotiated.

What is an Arrest Warrant in Utah?

Per URCRP Rule 6, a judge issues an arrest warrant when there is probable cause to believe a crime has been committed and the accused committed it. An arrest warrant authorizes a peace officer to arrest the subject of the warrant. The officer can execute the warrant at any place in the state of Utah. Upon executing the warrant, the officer must return it to the magistrate immediately.

How to Check if You Have a Warrant in Utah

Law enforcement agencies in Utah provide members of the public with access to warrant information. Standard methods of finding a warrant in the state are in person and over the phone. For instance, the Summit County Justice Court disseminates active warrant information over the phone at (435) 635-9663. The record seeker's name and birthdate would be required to facilitate the search. This service is usually free. However, copies of any record will cost a small fee.

Can You Check Warrants Online in Utah?

Yes. The Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI) of the Utah Department of Public Safety offers a Statewide Warrant Search service to the general public online. Individuals may use this tool to conduct an active warrant search. The data and search parameters are based on first, middle, and last names. After clicking “Continue,” a list of wanted persons with the searched name will appear. Choose a name and click “View” to obtain information concerning the warrant. The name, age, case number, court name, and charges of the individual will all be disclosed in the search result.

How To Find Out If You Have a Warrant for Free

Anyone can conduct a warrant search in Utah for free through the following methods:

• Visit the Utah Statewide Warrant Search online tool and input a first and last name
• Contact the court that issued the warrant by phone or in person
• Visit the local police department or county sheriff’s office

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

The most common way to determine if someone has a warrant online in Utah for free is by using the Utah Statewide Warrant Search tool. The search criteria are by name. Requests for free online warrant searches are usually unlimited, except for circumstances in which a warrant record is confidential.

How Long Does a Warrant Stay Active in Utah?

Most Utah warrants remain valid indefinitely unless the judge recalls the order or the person dies. However, this rule does not apply to search warrants, as they are only valid for ten (10) days after they are issued.

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

The Warrant Information System (WIN) of the United States Marshall Service is the official repository for federal warrants. However, this database is not available to the general public. Several security measures are used to secure all of the information in WIN against unauthorized access. These security measures limit access to authorized individuals who require it to carry out their official responsibilities. In contrast, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) lists fugitives with federal warrants available to the public via its "Most Wanted" page. Alternatively, requesters can contact an attorney to help them conduct a federal warrant search.