Have you heard of the Great Texas Warrant Roundup? Each year, law enforcement agencies across the state join forces to clear outstanding arrest warrants—most often for unpaid traffic tickets and other fine-only offenses. By 2015, more than 300 jurisdictions were participating, and the 2016 Roundup is right around the corner.
When Does It Happen?
While the official 2016 dates haven’t yet been announced, history is a good guide. In past years, the Roundup has stretched from late February through mid-March:
- Amnesty or “grace period” (late February): For about two weeks, people with outstanding warrants are urged to come forward voluntarily. This is your chance to pay fines, post bond, or otherwise resolve your case before arrests begin.
- Enforcement phase (early–mid March): Once the grace period ends, law enforcement officers fan out to serve warrants. During this time, the focus shifts to arrests of individuals who still haven’t taken care of their outstanding tickets.
Why Does It Matter?
The Roundup is taken seriously. Each year, thousands of Texans are arrested during the enforcement phase. The Dallas–Fort Worth area alone typically collects $1 to $2.5 million in fines and fees during the Roundup. Statewide, that figure approaches $20 million.
In other words, there’s a strong financial incentive for cities and counties to push participation—and a very real risk of arrest if you ignore it.
What Should You Do If You Have Unpaid Tickets?
If you think you might have an outstanding warrant—even for something as minor as a traffic ticket—the safest step is to resolve it before the enforcement period begins. Posting bond and addressing your tickets now can help you avoid being arrested at home, work, or even during a routine traffic stop.
At Bailey & Galyen, our goal is to protect your record and your future. Taking care of a ticket properly can help you avoid:
- Surcharges
- Driver’s license suspension
- Higher insurance premiums
Don’t wait until it’s too late. If you think you may have an outstanding warrant, call Bailey & Galyen today. Our experienced attorneys can help you resolve your tickets before the Roundup begins—protecting your record, your license, and your peace of mind. Contact us now for a consultation.