Wichita Bail Bonds Blog

Getting a warrant while on probation is a serious issue that can lead to immediate arrest and possible revocation of your probation. In Kansas, a warrant is issued when a probation officer or judge believes you violated the terms of your probation. This type of warrant is called a “probation violation warrant,” and it means the court wants you taken into custody to explain or defend the alleged violation.

Why A Warrant Is Issued During Probation

• Failure to report – Missing appointments with your probation officer is one of the most common reasons for a warrant.
• Positive drug or alcohol tests – Failing a test or refusing to take one can result in an immediate violation report.
• New criminal charges – Being arrested for another offense while on probation usually leads to a warrant and possible revocation.
• Failure to pay fines or restitution – Not meeting financial obligations ordered by the court may trigger a warrant.
• Failure to complete programs – Skipping treatment, counseling, or community service can also lead to a violation.

What Happens After The Warrant Is Issued

• You can be arrested at any time once the warrant is active.
• After arrest, you are usually held in jail until a probation violation hearing can be scheduled.
• The court may deny bail on a probation warrant, meaning you stay in custody until the hearing date.
• Your probation officer or attorney can sometimes request that the judge recall the warrant or allow a voluntary surrender, depending on the situation.

Probation Violation Hearing

• The judge reviews the alleged violations to decide if they are true.
• If you admit the violation or the court finds proof, the judge may revoke probation, modify the terms, or impose a new sentence.
• Common outcomes include extended probation, additional treatment requirements, short jail stays, or full revocation leading to prison time.

What You Should Do If There’s A Warrant

• Do not ignore it – The longer you wait, the worse it gets. Law enforcement can arrest you at home, work, or during a traffic stop.
• Contact an attorney immediately – A lawyer can confirm the warrant, contact the probation officer, and possibly arrange a surrender or hearing.
• Turn yourself in voluntarily – Judges often view this as a sign of responsibility, which may lead to a lighter outcome.

If you get a warrant while on probation, you can be arrested and held until a court hearing determines the next step. The court may revoke or modify your probation based on the violation. Acting quickly by contacting a lawyer and addressing the warrant voluntarily gives you the best chance to avoid additional jail time or harsher penalties.