Will I Get Arrested If I Get My Fingerprints Taken?
If you’ve recently received a summons in the mail in AZ asking you to get your fingerprints taken, you’re likely feeling a bit uneasy about what that means. It’s a common concern: “Will I be arrested when I show up to get my fingerprints taken?” The short answer is, no, you will not be arrested just for getting your fingerprints taken, but let’s break it down a bit further to clarify why.
The Purpose of Getting Fingerprints Taken
When you receive a summons, it usually indicates that there is a scheduled court date for you. Along with the court date, you may also be required to have your fingerprints taken before that first hearing. This is a standard part of the booking process used by the courts. The fingerprints are collected as part of your official record and are used in the case—whether to verify your identity, link you to past records, or assist in your current case.
Why You Won’t Be Arrested (Unless… )
The key point to remember is that getting your fingerprints taken is not the same as being arrested. It’s simply a procedure to gather information before your court date. You should not be arrested unless there’s an active warrant for your arrest for a different case.
If there were an active warrant for your arrest, you likely wouldn’t receive a summons. Instead, you’d be arrested at the time the warrant is served. A summons is generally for situations where the authorities are asking for your cooperation—it’s not a signal that you’re going to be detained.
What Happens When You Get Your Fingerprints Taken?
Typically, the process involves you showing up at a designated location where your fingerprints and a photo will be taken. This is often referred to as the general booking process, which simply means you’re being officially recorded into the system for the case you’re involved in. The court uses this information for identification purposes and to move your case along.
What to Expect at Your Arizona Court Date
When your first court date arrives, the judge will usually ask if you’ve had your fingerprints taken. If you’ve already done it, the process will go smoothly. However, if you haven’t gotten your fingerprints taken yet, the court will likely allow some extra time for you to do so, as these locations are often close to the courthouse. You might be asked to take care of it right after the hearing, which should help avoid any further delays or complications with your case.
Final Thoughts
So, to ease your concerns, you will not get arrested just for getting your fingerprints taken. It’s simply a standard procedure in preparation for your court case. As long as you cooperate and follow the instructions provided, you should have nothing to worry about. If you’re unsure about the process, it’s always a good idea to reach out to your attorney or the court for clarification.
And if you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to ask us!
If you or someone you know is facing criminal charges in Arizona, it’s advisable to seek legal assistance immediately. At R&R Law Group, we offer free case evaluations to help you understand your legal rights and options, schedule now or give us a call at (602) 497-3088. Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. If you have questions about Arizona’s laws or are facing charges, we recommend contacting an attorney for guidance.
