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Washington County Warrant Search

How To Check for Warrants in Washington County in 2026

WashingtonMNRecords.us provides access to publicly available information related to warrant records in Washington County, Minnesota. Members of the public may find data pertaining to arrest warrants, bench warrants, search warrants, and related court records. The following categories of records may be available through official and third-party sources:

  • Active and outstanding warrant records
  • Arrest and booking records
  • Court case records and case status
  • Criminal history and charge information
  • Bench warrant and failure-to-appear records

Records may be searched through official resources, including the Washington County Sheriff's Office, the Minnesota Judicial Branch, and the Minnesota Court Records Online (MCRO) system. Members of the public may search warrant and case information through the following channels:

  • Minnesota Court Records Online (MCRO): The Minnesota Court Records Online portal allows members of the public to search public case records and documents by party name, case number, or other identifiers. Access is available at no cost for basic case information.
  • Washington County District Court: The Washington County District Court maintains case records for criminal, civil, and traffic matters. Questions regarding court appearances may be directed to (651) 413-8133.
  • Access Case Records – Minnesota Judicial Branch: The Access Case Records page of the Minnesota Judicial Branch provides guidance on how to obtain court records, including warrant-related documents, both online and in person.
  • Washington County Sheriff's Office: Members of the public may contact the Sheriff's Office directly to inquire about active warrants by name and date of birth.

Why Check for Warrants:

  • Avoid unexpected arrest during a routine traffic stop or other law enforcement encounter
  • Resolve outstanding legal matters proactively before they compound
  • Clear up misunderstandings resulting from clerical errors or mistaken identity
  • Handle legal obligations responsibly and in compliance with court orders
  • Obtain peace of mind regarding one's legal standing

Warning Signs You May Have a Warrant:

  • Missed a scheduled court appearance
  • Failed to pay court-ordered fines or fees
  • Violated the terms of probation or supervised release
  • Aware of pending criminal charges that have not been resolved
  • A traffic stop resulted in release with a warning rather than a citation
  • Received a notice to appear and did not comply

Methods to Check for Warrants:

1. Online Warrant Search

Members of the public may search for active warrant information through the Minnesota Court Records Online (MCRO) system, which provides free public access to case records and is updated on a regular basis. Searches may be conducted by name and return results showing active warrants, associated charges, bond amounts, and case numbers. The Washington County District Court case search, accessible through the Minnesota Judicial Branch case records portal, also allows the public to verify bench warrant status within open court cases.

2. Call Law Enforcement

Members of the public may contact the Washington County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line to inquire about active warrants. Callers should not contact 911 for this purpose.

Washington County Sheriff's Office 14949 62nd Street North Stillwater, MN 55082 Phone: (651) 439-9381 Washington County Sheriff's Office

When calling, individuals should be prepared to provide:

  • Full legal name
  • Date of birth
  • Social Security number (in some cases)

Anonymous inquiry may not be possible in all circumstances. Individuals should be aware that if a warrant is confirmed, law enforcement may be obligated to take action.

3. Visit the Sheriff's Office or Police Department

Members of the public may appear in person at the Washington County Sheriff's Office to inquire about warrant status at the records window or front desk. A valid government-issued photo identification should be presented.

Washington County Sheriff's Office 14949 62nd Street North Stillwater, MN 55082 Phone: (651) 439-9381 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Washington County Sheriff's Office

Warning: Individuals who appear in person and are found to have an active warrant may be subject to immediate arrest. Sheriff's deputies are obligated to execute active warrants upon confirmation. Individuals who suspect a warrant may exist are advised to consult an attorney prior to any in-person inquiry.

4. Contact the Court

The Washington County District Court Clerk's Office may confirm the existence of bench warrants within open case files. Court staff will not initiate an arrest, but an active warrant remains enforceable regardless of how it is discovered.

Washington County District Court – Clerk of Court 14949 62nd Street North Stillwater, MN 55082 Phone: (651) 430-6300 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Washington County District Court

Members of the public may also check case status online through the Minnesota Court Records Online system.

5. Hire an Attorney

Retaining an attorney is the safest method for individuals who suspect an active warrant may exist. Communications between an attorney and client are protected by attorney-client privilege. An attorney may verify warrant status, explain the nature of the charges, and arrange a voluntary surrender if a warrant is confirmed. The Minnesota State Bar Association provides attorney referral services for individuals seeking legal counsel.

6. Third-Party Background Check (Use Caution)

Commercial background check services may display warrant information; however, the accuracy and currency of such data varies. These services charge fees for information that is available at no cost through official government sources. Members of the public are advised to verify any results obtained through commercial services against official county and court records.

What Information You'll Need:

  • Full legal name
  • Any aliases or former names
  • Date of birth
  • Social Security number (helpful but not always required)
  • Previous addresses in the county

Important Warnings:

Risk of Immediate Arrest:

  • Checking in person may result in arrest if a warrant is active
  • Sheriff's deputies are legally obligated to execute warrants upon confirmation
  • Individuals cannot "check and leave" if a warrant is found during an in-person inquiry
  • Consulting an attorney prior to any in-person inquiry is strongly advisable

Don't Delay:

  • Warrants do not expire in most circumstances and remain active indefinitely
  • Outstanding warrants may compound with additional charges, including failure to appear
  • A routine traffic stop can result in arrest if an active warrant is discovered
  • Proactive resolution is preferable to an unplanned arrest

What NOT to Do:

  • Do not ignore a possible warrant
  • Do not attempt to flee or conceal one's whereabouts
  • Do not provide false information to law enforcement
  • Do not resist if an arrest is made
  • Do not assume a warrant will expire or be dismissed without action

What Is a Search Warrant in Washington County?

A search warrant is a legal document issued by a judge or magistrate that authorizes law enforcement officers to search a specific location and seize designated items or evidence. Under the Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution, members of the public are protected against unreasonable searches and seizures, and law enforcement must obtain judicial authorization before conducting most searches.

Purpose of Search Warrants:

  • Protect the privacy rights of individuals against arbitrary government intrusion
  • Prevent unreasonable searches by requiring judicial oversight
  • Balance the legitimate needs of law enforcement with individual constitutional rights
  • Ensure that evidence gathering is conducted within the bounds of the law

Constitutional Basis:

The Fourth Amendment requires that warrants be supported by probable cause, issued upon oath or affirmation, and must particularly describe the place to be searched and the persons or things to be seized. The Minnesota Constitution, Article I, Section 10 provides parallel protections at the state level, reinforcing the requirement for judicial authorization prior to any search.

Legal Requirements:

Under Minnesota Statutes § 626.08, a search warrant may be issued only upon a showing of probable cause, supported by affidavit or sworn testimony, and must describe with particularity the place to be searched and the items to be seized. The warrant must be executed within the time period specified by the issuing court, and a return must be filed with the court upon execution.

When Search Warrants Are Used:

  • Criminal investigations involving drug offenses, theft, or violent crimes
  • White-collar crime investigations requiring access to financial records
  • Seizure of digital evidence, including computers and mobile devices
  • Recovery of contraband or stolen property
  • Investigations involving weapons or illegal substances

Difference from Other Warrants:

  • Search warrant: Authorizes law enforcement to search a specific location and seize designated property
  • Arrest warrant: Authorizes law enforcement to take a specific person into custody
  • Bench warrant: A court order issued for failure to comply with a court directive, such as a missed appearance
  • These warrant types are distinct and are not interchangeable in their legal authority or purpose

Are Warrants Public Records in Washington County?

Warrants are subject to Minnesota's public records laws and are accessible to the public in most circumstances following execution. The Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, codified at Minnesota Statutes § 13.82, governs the classification and disclosure of law enforcement data, including warrant information.

When Warrants Become Public:

Search Warrants:

  • Before execution: Search warrants are sealed and confidential prior to execution in order to protect the integrity of the investigation, prevent the destruction of evidence, and preserve the element of surprise.
  • After execution: Search warrants, supporting affidavits, and inventories of seized items become part of the public court record and are accessible through the court clerk's office or the Minnesota Court Records Online system.

Arrest Warrants:

  • Active warrants: Active arrest warrants are accessible to the public and may be searched by name through official databases. Information typically includes the subject's name, charges, bond amount, and the issuing court.
  • After arrest: Arrest warrants remain part of the public court record following execution and are accessible as part of the associated case file.

Exceptions and Sealed Warrants:

Certain warrants may remain sealed or partially redacted under the following circumstances:

  • Grand jury proceedings
  • Ongoing criminal investigations where disclosure would compromise the case
  • National security matters
  • Cases involving confidential informants or sensitive investigative techniques
  • Juvenile proceedings
  • Witness protection situations

The duration of sealing is determined by the presiding judge and may extend for months or years. In most cases, sealed warrants eventually become part of the public record, though certain portions may be permanently redacted to protect confidential sources or ongoing investigations.

What's Publicly Available:

  • Active arrest warrant information (searchable online)
  • Executed search warrant documents and affidavits
  • Inventories of items seized pursuant to search warrants
  • Court case files containing warrant records

What's Restricted:

  • Unexecuted search warrants
  • Sealed investigative warrants
  • Confidential informant identities
  • Certain law enforcement techniques and methods
  • Grand jury materials

How Much Does It Cost to Get Warrant Records in Washington County?

Members of the public may access basic warrant and case information at no cost through the Minnesota Court Records Online (MCRO) system. The following fee structure applies to requests for physical copies and certified documents:

Record TypeStandard Fee
Copies of court records (per page)$0.25 per page
Certified copies of court documents$14.00 per document
Electronic copies (where available)No charge through MCRO
In-person record inspectionNo charge

Fees for copies of court records in Minnesota are governed by Minnesota Statutes § 357.021, which establishes the schedule of fees applicable to court filings and document requests. Accepted payment methods at the Washington County District Court Clerk's Office include cash, check, and money order. Members of the public should confirm current accepted payment methods directly with the clerk's office, as policies may be updated.

What You Can Get for Free:

  • Online case record searches through MCRO
  • In-person inspection of public court records at the courthouse
  • Active warrant status inquiries through the Sheriff's Office (by phone or in person)
  • Access to public terminals at the courthouse for case record review

Fee waiver provisions may apply in limited circumstances, such as for indigent individuals or in cases where the request serves a demonstrable public interest. Individuals seeking a fee waiver should submit a written request to the Clerk of Court for consideration.

What Types of Warrants in Washington County

1. Arrest Warrants

An arrest warrant is a court order authorizing law enforcement to take a specific individual into custody based on probable cause that the person has committed a criminal offense. Arrest warrants are issued by a judge or magistrate and remain active until executed or formally recalled by the court.

When Issued:

  • Felony charges have been filed and the suspect is not in custody
  • Following a grand jury indictment
  • When a suspect presents a flight risk prior to formal charging
  • For serious misdemeanor offenses

Information in an Arrest Warrant:

  • Subject's full legal name and physical description
  • Specific criminal charges and statute violations
  • Bond amount and conditions of release
  • Name of the issuing court and judge's signature
  • Law enforcement agency responsible for execution

How Executed:

  • Law enforcement locates the subject and effects an arrest at any location
  • The subject is transported to the county jail for booking and processing
  • A first appearance hearing is scheduled before the court

2. Bench Warrants

A bench warrant is issued directly by a judge from the bench when an individual fails to comply with a court order. Bench warrants are among the most common warrant types issued in Washington County.

Common Reasons:

  • Failure to appear (FTA) for a scheduled court date
  • Failure to pay court-ordered fines or costs
  • Violation of probation or supervised release terms
  • Contempt of court
  • Failure to complete community service or other court-ordered obligations

Differences from Arrest Warrants:

  • Issued for court-related violations rather than new criminal conduct
  • Bond amounts are often lower than those associated with arrest warrants
  • May be recalled if the underlying issue is resolved promptly
  • In some cases, may be addressed without a period of incarceration

Resolving Bench Warrants:

  • Contact the Washington County District Court at (651) 430-6300 to inquire about options
  • Pay outstanding fines or fees to satisfy the court's order
  • Retain an attorney to file a motion to recall the warrant
  • Arrange voluntary surrender through legal counsel

3. Search Warrants

A search warrant authorizes law enforcement to enter and search a specific location and to seize designated items of evidence. Search warrants must describe with particularity both the location to be searched and the items to be seized, and must be executed within the time period authorized by the issuing court.

What Can Be Searched:

  • Private residences and apartments
  • Vehicles
  • Commercial businesses
  • Storage units
  • Electronic devices, including computers and mobile phones
  • Financial records and documents

Requirements:

  • Probable cause supported by sworn affidavit, as required under Minnesota Statutes § 626.08
  • Particularity in describing the place to be searched and items to be seized
  • Approval by a neutral judge or magistrate
  • Execution within the time period specified in the warrant

Types of Items Seized:

  • Contraband and illegal substances
  • Stolen property
  • Weapons
  • Digital evidence and electronic devices
  • Financial records and documents
  • Evidence of criminal activity

4. No-Knock Warrants

A no-knock warrant is a specialized type of search warrant that authorizes law enforcement to enter a premises without prior announcement. These warrants are subject to a higher standard of judicial review and are issued only when specific exigent circumstances are present.

When Used:

  • When there is a credible risk that evidence will be destroyed if advance notice is given
  • When the safety of officers or others would be endangered by announcement
  • In investigations involving violent suspects or weapons
  • In certain drug investigations

State Laws: Minnesota law requires that no-knock warrants be supported by specific factual findings justifying the waiver of the knock-and-announce requirement. Additional judicial oversight and documentation are required, and the use of such warrants is subject to ongoing legislative scrutiny and regulation.

5. Governor's Warrants (Extradition)

A governor's warrant is issued by the Governor of Minnesota to authorize the arrest and extradition of a fugitive who is wanted in another state. The process is governed by the Uniform Criminal Extradition Act, which Minnesota has adopted.

Process:

  • A fugitive warrant is issued in the requesting state
  • The requesting state submits an extradition request to the Governor of Minnesota
  • The Governor of Minnesota issues a governor's warrant authorizing arrest
  • The subject may challenge extradition or waive the right to an extradition hearing
  • The subject is held in custody pending transfer to the requesting state

6. Capias Warrants (Civil Contempt)

A capias warrant may be issued in civil proceedings, including family court matters such as child support enforcement, when a party fails to comply with a court order. Although arising from civil proceedings, a capias warrant can result in arrest and detention until the individual complies with the court's directive or posts a purge amount set by the court.

7. Witness Warrants (Material Witness)

A material witness warrant may be issued to compel the appearance of a witness who is avoiding a lawfully issued subpoena. These warrants are relatively uncommon but may be issued when a witness's testimony is essential to a criminal proceeding and the witness has demonstrated an unwillingness to appear voluntarily.

Traffic Warrants:

Failure to appear on a traffic citation or failure to pay traffic fines may result in the issuance of a bench warrant. Traffic warrants typically carry lower bond amounts than criminal warrants and may be resolved through the traffic court division of the Washington County District Court.

Probation/Parole Violation Warrants:

When an individual violates the terms of probation or supervised release, a warrant may be issued upon the recommendation of a probation officer or parole authority. These warrants often carry no bond or a high bond amount, and the subject is entitled to a hearing before a judge to address the alleged violation.

Federal Warrants:

Federal warrants are issued by federal judges within the United States District Court for the District of Minnesota and are enforced by federal agencies including the FBI, DEA, ATF, and U.S. Marshals Service. Federal warrants are separate from county warrants and are governed by distinct procedures under federal law.

United States District Court – District of Minnesota 316 North Robert Street St. Paul, MN 55101 Phone: (651) 848-1100 U.S. District Court – District of Minnesota

What Warrants in Washington County Contain

Standard Information in All Warrants:

Header Information:

  • Court seal and full name of the issuing court
  • Statement "In the Name of the State of Minnesota"
  • Case number and warrant number
  • Court division and judge's name
  • Issue date

Subject Identification:

  • Full legal name and any known aliases
  • Date of birth
  • Physical description, including height, weight, race, eye color, hair color, and identifying marks
  • Last known address
  • Driver's license number or Social Security number (where applicable)

Legal Authority:

  • Citation to applicable Minnesota statutes
  • Command directed "To any law enforcement officer in the State of Minnesota"
  • Statement of the court's jurisdiction

Specific to Arrest Warrants:

Charges Section:

  • Specific criminal offense(s) charged
  • Statute number(s) violated
  • Degree of offense (felony class or misdemeanor level)
  • Number of counts and date of alleged offense

Probable Cause Statement:

  • Summary of facts supporting the arrest
  • Reference to the supporting affidavit or criminal complaint
  • Officer's sworn statement and witness information (names may be redacted)

Bond Information:

  • Bond amount as set by the court
  • Type of bond (cash, surety, personal recognizance, or no bond)
  • Conditions of release and any special restrictions

Execution Instructions:

  • Directions for executing the warrant
  • Requirement to bring the subject before the court
  • Jurisdictional scope (statewide)
  • Special cautions regarding the subject (armed, dangerous, or flight risk)

Specific to Search Warrants:

Premises Description:

  • Complete street address and physical description of the location
  • Apartment or unit number, distinguishing features, and cross streets
  • GPS coordinates or photographs may be attached in some cases

Items to Be Seized:

  • Specific description of evidence sought, including contraband, stolen property, digital devices, financial records, and documents
  • Categories of items described with sufficient particularity to satisfy constitutional requirements

Probable Cause Affidavit:

  • Detailed sworn statement of facts supporting probable cause
  • Summary of the officer's investigation, surveillance results, and prior law enforcement contacts
  • Informant information (may be redacted)
  • Nexus between the location and the alleged criminal activity

Time Limitations:

  • Date of issuance and expiration date (warrants in Minnesota are typically required to be executed within ten days of issuance)
  • Time-of-day restrictions, including any special authorization for nighttime service

Return Requirements:

  • Date and time of execution
  • Inventory of all items seized
  • List of persons present during the search
  • Officer's signature on the return filed with the court

Specific to Bench Warrants:

Court Order Violation:

  • Description of the court order that was violated
  • Original case number and associated charges
  • Court date that was missed or obligation that was not fulfilled
  • Bond amount and conditions for release

Resolution Information:

  • Amount required to purge the warrant
  • Conditions for release
  • Court contact information for scheduling

Warrant Endorsements:

  • Original judicial signature and court seal
  • Date signed and judge's printed name
  • Electronic signatures are recognized in Minnesota where authorized by court rule

Attachments and Supporting Documents:

  • Affidavit of probable cause
  • Criminal complaint
  • Photographs or diagrams (where applicable)
  • Witness statements (redacted as appropriate)

Confidential Portions:

  • Identities of confidential informants
  • Sensitive investigative techniques
  • Addresses of protected witnesses
  • Ongoing investigation details that may be sealed or redacted by court order

What's NOT Typically in Warrants:

  • Complete police investigation reports
  • Full defendant statements
  • All witness statements
  • Law enforcement strategy or tactical information
  • Information unrelated to the specific case

Who Issues Warrants in Washington County

Warrants in Washington County may only be issued by a neutral judicial officer. Under the Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution, law enforcement officers are prohibited from self-authorizing searches or arrests; all warrants must be reviewed and signed by a judge or magistrate with appropriate jurisdiction.

Judges and Courts with Authority:

1. Washington County District Court Judges

The Washington County District Court is the primary trial court with authority to issue all types of warrants, including arrest warrants, search warrants, and bench warrants, for both felony and misdemeanor matters.

Washington County District Court 14949 62nd Street North Stillwater, MN 55082 Phone: (651) 430-6300 Washington County District Court

2. Court Commissioners

Court commissioners in Minnesota are appointed judicial officers with authority to issue initial arrest warrants, search warrants, and bench warrants, and to set bond amounts. Commissioners are available to review warrant applications outside of regular court hours, ensuring that law enforcement may obtain judicial authorization for urgent matters at any time.

3. Municipal Court Judges

Municipal court judges in Washington County cities have limited jurisdiction over municipal ordinance violations and traffic matters within their respective cities. These judges may issue bench warrants for failure to appear in municipal court proceedings but do not have authority to issue felony arrest warrants.

Who Requests Warrants:

Washington County Sheriff's Office: Sheriff's deputies and investigators conduct criminal investigations, prepare sworn affidavits establishing probable cause, and present warrant applications to the court. The Sheriff's Office is the primary law enforcement agency responsible for warrant execution in unincorporated areas of Washington County.

Washington County Sheriff's Office 14949 62nd Street North Stillwater, MN 55082 Phone: (651) 439-9381 Washington County Sheriff's Office

Local Police Departments: City police departments within Washington County, including those serving Stillwater, Woodbury, Oakdale, and other municipalities, may independently investigate crimes and request warrants through the District Court.

Washington County Attorney's Office: The Washington County Attorney's Office reviews criminal investigations, determines charges, and requests arrest warrants on behalf of the State of Minnesota. Assistant county attorneys are available on an on-call basis to review warrant applications outside of regular business hours.

Washington County Attorney's Office 14949 62nd Street North, Suite 4400 Stillwater, MN 55082 Phone: (651) 430-6115 Washington County Attorney's Office

The Warrant Issuance Process:

Step 1: Investigation Law enforcement gathers evidence, interviews witnesses, and documents findings sufficient to establish probable cause.

Step 2: Affidavit Preparation The investigating officer prepares a sworn affidavit detailing the facts supporting probable cause, citing specific statutory violations, and identifying the suspect or location.

Step 3: Presentation to Judge The officer or prosecutor presents the affidavit to a judge or court commissioner, either in person or through an authorized electronic submission process.

Step 4: Judicial Review The judge independently reviews the affidavit, assesses whether probable cause exists, and ensures that all constitutional and statutory requirements are satisfied.

Step 5: Warrant Signed or Denied If the judge finds probable cause, the warrant is signed and becomes effective immediately. If denied, the officer may supplement the affidavit with additional information or decline to proceed.

Step 6: Execution by Law Enforcement The signed warrant is provided to officers for execution and entered into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database for statewide and national enforcement.

After-Hours Warrants:

Court commissioners in Washington County are available on an on-call basis to review and authorize warrant applications outside of regular court hours. Officers may contact the on-call commissioner by telephone for urgent warrant requests. Minnesota law also permits telephonic and electronic warrant applications in appropriate circumstances.

Electronic Warrants (E-Warrants): Minnesota courts have implemented electronic warrant systems that allow officers to submit warrant applications digitally and receive judicial authorization through secure electronic means. E-warrants carry the same legal authority as paper warrants.

Who CANNOT Issue Warrants:

  • Law enforcement officers (cannot self-authorize searches or arrests)
  • Prosecutors acting alone without judicial review
  • Administrative agencies (with narrow statutory exceptions)
  • Private citizens

How To Find Outstanding Warrants in Washington County

An outstanding warrant is one that has been issued by a court but has not yet been executed—meaning the subject has not been arrested or the search has not been conducted. Outstanding warrants remain active in law enforcement databases and may be executed at any time, including during routine traffic stops or other law enforcement encounters.

Why Search for Outstanding Warrants:

Personal Check:

  • Verify that no active warrants exist against you
  • Resolve outstanding matters before an unplanned encounter with law enforcement
  • Handle legal obligations proactively
  • Avoid surprise arrest

Research Purposes:

  • Background checks for employment or tenancy
  • Legal research and case preparation
  • Journalistic investigation of public records

Methods to Find Outstanding Warrants:

1. Online Warrant Database

Members of the public may search for active warrant and case information through the Minnesota Court Records Online (MCRO) system. Searches may be conducted by name and date of birth and return results showing active warrants, associated charges, bond amounts, and case numbers. The system is updated on a regular basis, though recently issued warrants may not appear immediately due to processing delays.

The Access Case Records page of the Minnesota Judicial Branch provides additional guidance on searching court records, including warrant-related information, both online and through in-person public access terminals at the courthouse.

2. County Most Wanted List

The Washington County Sheriff's Office maintains information on high-priority warrant subjects. Members of the public may contact the Sheriff's Office directly for information on actively sought fugitives.

3. Direct Contact with Law Enforcement

Washington County Sheriff's Office – Warrants Division 14949 62nd Street North Stillwater, MN 55082 Phone: (651) 439-9381 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Washington County Sheriff's Office

Staff may check the warrant database by name and date of birth and provide information about active warrants. Warning: Individuals who appear in person and are found to have an active warrant may be subject to immediate arrest.

4. Through an Attorney

Retaining an attorney is the safest method for individuals who suspect an active warrant may exist. Attorney-client privilege protects communications, and an attorney may verify warrant status, explain the legal consequences, and arrange a voluntary surrender if a warrant is confirmed. The Minnesota State Bar Association provides attorney referral services.

5. Clerk of Court

Washington County District Court – Clerk of Court 14949 62nd Street North Stillwater, MN 55082 Phone: (651) 430-6300 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Washington County District Court

The Clerk's Office can confirm bench warrant status within open case files. Public access terminals are available at the courthouse for self-service record searches. Court staff will not initiate an arrest, but an active warrant remains enforceable.

6. Statewide Resources

The Minnesota Judicial Branch provides statewide case record access through the Minnesota Court Records Online portal, allowing members of the public to search for warrant and case information across all Minnesota counties.

Search Multiple Jurisdictions:

Warrants may be issued by different courts and law enforcement agencies. Individuals with legal history in multiple counties or municipalities should check each relevant jurisdiction, including:

  • Washington County Sheriff's Office
  • Each city police department in municipalities where the individual has resided or worked
  • All counties where legal proceedings have occurred
  • Traffic courts and criminal courts separately
  • Probation offices if currently under supervision

Information Needed for Search:

  • Full legal name and any aliases or former names
  • Date of birth
  • Social Security number (helpful but not always required)
  • Previous addresses in the county
  • Case numbers, if known

Interpreting Search Results:

If a Warrant Is Found:

  • Record the warrant number, charges, bond amount, issuing court, and issue date
  • Consult an attorney immediately
  • Do not attempt to flee or conceal one's whereabouts
  • An attorney can arrange voluntary surrender and may negotiate bond reduction

If No Warrant Is Found:

  • Verify results through multiple official sources, as recently issued warrants may not yet appear in online systems
  • Consider attorney verification for definitive confirmation

Limitations of Online Searches:

  • Warrants issued within the past several hours or days may not yet appear in online databases
  • Sealed warrants will not be visible in public search results
  • Federal warrants are not included in county databases
  • Errors or outdated information may occasionally appear; official verification is advisable

Third-Party Websites:

Commercial background check services may offer warrant searches for a fee; however, the accuracy and currency of such information varies. Members of the public are advised to use free official government sources as the primary means of warrant verification and to treat commercial results as supplementary only.

Warning About Scams:

  • Some commercial websites falsely claim to have found warrants in order to sell services
  • Any warrant information obtained through a commercial service should be verified against official county and court records
  • Members of the public should not pay for information that is available at no cost through official government sources

What to Do If You Find a Warrant:

  1. Do not panic; record all warrant details
  2. Do not attempt to handle the matter without legal counsel
  3. Contact an attorney immediately
  4. Do not turn yourself in without first consulting an attorney
  5. Do not discuss the matter with anyone other than your attorney

An attorney may verify that the warrant is real and active, explain the charges and potential consequences, arrange a