What is the difference between a report, an affidavit, and a bench warrant?
Report is a report of an alleged crime or incident that occurred

Affidavit is a sworn statement that a person has committed a crime against the complainant on a specific date. The affidavit is affirmed to a clerk of court and then is submitted to the judge. The judge then reads the complainant and determines if "probable cause" exist to believe the person committed the crime. If probable cause exist then the judge signs the affidavit which then becomes a warrant. The person then has an arrest warrant for him. Probable cause is not enough for a conviction. It is just that there is probable cause to believe the person committed the crime. There must be "proof beyond a reasonable doubt" in order to get a conviction.

Bench Warrant is issued by the judge for failure to pay fine, failure to appear in court, or failure to answer to a subpoena (the last two are commonly known as contempt of court). The bench warrant is active until served, or fine/days served.


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1. How much does it cost to request a police report?
2. If I file a police report will an arrest be made?
3. How do I get a copy of my accident report?
4. What is the difference between a report, an affidavit, and a bench warrant?
5. How do I get a corrected accident report?
6. How do I file a complaint on an officer?
7. Is the police officer required to show me the radar speed if I ask to see it?
8. Is my name going to be in the paper if I get arrested?
9. Who do I contact for more information on the citizen's academy?
10. Who do I contact for an animal problem?