Pinellas County Warrant Search

What Is a Search Warrant In Pinellas County?

A search warrant in Pinellas County is a legal document issued by a judge that authorizes law enforcement officers to search a specific location for evidence related to a crime. These warrants are based on probable cause and must describe the place to be searched and the items to be seized. In Pinellas County, search warrants are typically executed by the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office or local police departments.

Search warrants must comply with the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which protects citizens against unreasonable searches and seizures. Law enforcement must present sufficient evidence to a judge to demonstrate probable cause that a crime has been committed and that evidence of that crime will likely be found at the location to be searched.

Pinellas County Sheriff's Office: 10750 Ulmerton Rd, Largo, FL 33778

Are Warrants Public Records In Pinellas County?

Yes, warrants are generally considered public records in Pinellas County. The Florida Constitution and Florida's Public Records Law (Chapter 119, Florida Statutes) establish a right of access to government records, including most warrant information. However, there are some exceptions:

1. Sealed warrants: Some warrants may be sealed by court order, typically to protect an ongoing investigation.
2. Juvenile records: Warrants involving juveniles may have restricted access.
3. Active criminal intelligence information: Details that could compromise an active investigation.

The public can access warrant information through the Pinellas County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller's office, which maintains these records.

Pinellas County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller: 315 Court St, Clearwater, FL 33756

How Do I Find Out if I Have a Warrant In Pinellas County?

There are several methods to determine if you have an active warrant in Pinellas County:

1. Contact the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office directly.
2. Check the Pinellas County Clerk of Court's online records system.
3. Use the Florida Department of Law Enforcement's (FDLE) Wanted Persons search.
4. Contact a local attorney who can safely check for warrants on your behalf.
5. Call the Pinellas County Courthouse.

If you discover you have an active warrant, it's advisable to consult with an attorney before taking any action, as self-surrender with legal representation may result in better outcomes than being arrested unexpectedly.

Florida Department of Law Enforcement: 2331 Phillips Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32308

How To Check for Warrants in Pinellas County for Free in 2025

In 2025, Pinellas County residents can check for warrants free of charge through several methods:

1. Online Resources:

   • The Pinellas County Clerk of Court's website offers a searchable database of court records.
   • The Florida Department of Law Enforcement's Wanted Persons Search provides statewide warrant information.
   • The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office website has a "Who's in Jail" feature that can indicate recent warrant arrests.

2. In-Person:

   • Visit the Pinellas County Clerk of Court's office in person to request a warrant search.
   • Go to the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office to inquire about possible warrants.

3. By Phone:

   • Call the Clerk's office or Sheriff's Office non-emergency line to inquire about warrants.

Remember that while these resources are free, they may not include all types of warrants, particularly sealed or federal warrants.

Pinellas County Justice Center: 14250 49th St N, Clearwater, FL 33762

What Types of Warrants In Pinellas County

Pinellas County issues several types of warrants:

1. Arrest Warrants: Issued when there is probable cause that an individual has committed a crime.

2. Bench Warrants: Issued by a judge when someone fails to appear for a scheduled court date or violates court orders.

3. Search Warrants: Authorize law enforcement to search specific locations for evidence.

4. Capias Warrants: Similar to arrest warrants but often issued for failure to comply with court orders.

5. Civil Warrants: Related to non-criminal matters such as unpaid child support.

6. Probation Violation Warrants: Issued when someone violates the terms of their probation.

Each type of warrant serves a specific purpose within the legal system and requires different procedures for resolution.

What Warrants in Pinellas County Contain

Warrants in Pinellas County typically contain the following information:

1. The name and description of the person to be arrested (for arrest warrants).
2. The specific address or location to be searched (for search warrants).
3. The alleged offense or reason for the warrant.
4. The date of issuance.
5. The signature of the issuing judge.
6. The bond amount, if applicable.
7. Instructions for law enforcement regarding execution of the warrant.
8. Any specific conditions or limitations.

For search warrants, there must be a detailed description of the items to be seized and the specific areas that may be searched, as required by the Fourth Amendment.

Who Issues Warrants In Pinellas County

In Pinellas County, warrants are issued by:

1. Circuit Court Judges: Handle felony cases and have the authority to issue all types of warrants.

2. County Court Judges: Primarily handle misdemeanors but can issue various warrants.

3. Magistrates: In some cases, may have limited authority to issue certain types of warrants.

The process typically begins with law enforcement or prosecutors presenting evidence to establish probable cause. The judge then reviews this evidence and, if convinced, signs the warrant, making it legally executable.

Sixth Judicial Circuit Court of Florida: 545 1st Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

How To Find for Outstanding Warrants In Pinellas County

To find outstanding warrants in Pinellas County:

1. Online Search Methods:

   • Use the Pinellas County Clerk of Court's online records system.
   • Check the Florida Department of Law Enforcement's Wanted Persons database.
   • Visit the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office website.

2. Direct Contact Methods:

   • Call or visit the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office.
   • Contact the Clerk of Court's office.
   • Consult with a local attorney who can conduct a thorough search.

3. Third-Party Resources:

   • Some private websites aggregate public records, though these may not always be current or complete.

When searching for someone else's warrant information, be aware that using this information improperly could potentially lead to legal issues.

How To Check Federal Warrants In Pinellas County

Federal warrants differ from state or county warrants and require different search methods:

1. Contact the U.S. Marshals Service, which is responsible for executing federal warrants.

2. Check with the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida, which has jurisdiction over Pinellas County.

3. Consult with a federal defense attorney who can make inquiries on your behalf.

4. Contact the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) field office.

Federal warrant information is often more restricted than county-level information, and not all federal warrants are publicly accessible due to ongoing investigations or national security concerns.

U.S. District Court, Middle District of Florida: 801 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33602

FBI Tampa Field Office: 5525 W Gray St, Tampa, FL 33609

How Long Do Warrants Last In Pinellas County?

In Pinellas County, most warrants remain active until they are executed (the person is arrested) or recalled by the court. There is generally no expiration date for warrants, with some key points to understand:

1. Felony warrants can remain active indefinitely.

2. Misdemeanor warrants typically remain active for long periods, though some minor offenses may eventually be reviewed.

3. Bench warrants for failure to appear in court usually remain active until the person appears before the court.

4. Search warrants are different and typically must be executed within 10 days of issuance in Florida.

The statute of limitations may affect the underlying charge, but this doesn't automatically invalidate the warrant itself.

How Long Does It Take To Get a Search Warrant In Pinellas County?

The time required to obtain a search warrant in Pinellas County varies based on several factors:

1. In emergency situations, warrants can be obtained within hours through expedited processes, including electronic submissions and telephone approvals.

2. Under normal circumstances, the process typically takes 1-3 days, including:

   • Preparing the affidavit establishing probable cause
   • Review by supervisors and prosecutors
   • Submission to a judge
   • Judicial review and approval

3. Complex cases involving extensive evidence or multiple locations may take longer.

Florida law allows for electronic submission of warrant applications, which has significantly streamlined the process in recent years.

Search Warrant Records in Pinellas County

• WANTED PERSONS SEARCH - Search for wanted persons in Florida as reported to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.

• View Records - Pinellas County Clerk - Access various public records including court records and official documents through the Pinellas County Clerk of the Circuit Court.

• Who's in Jail - Pinellas County Sheriff's Office - Check information on current inmates in Pinellas County, which can help identify individuals recently arrested on warrants.

• Pinellas County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller - Official site for accessing court records, official records, and other legal documentation in Pinellas County.