What is the purpose of a bench warrant?

The purpose of a bench warrant is to authorize law enforcement to locate and bring an individual to court who has failed to appear as required. When a person is summoned to court but does not show up, the judge may issue a bench warrant, signaling that the individual's presence is necessary to ensure the legal process is upheld. This mechanism ensures accountability and reinforces the authority of the court to compel attendance, emphasizing the importance of respecting legal obligations during judicial proceedings.

This function is distinct from other legal processes such as establishing court hours, which involves administrative matters unrelated to individual accountability, or allowing jury deliberation, which pertains to the decision-making phase of a trial. Additionally, dismissing a case due to lack of evidence is a resolution option within the judicial process but does not relate to the enforcement of attendance as highlighted by a bench warrant.