Union County Warrant Search
How To Check for Warrants in Union County in 2026
UnionMSRecords.us provides access to publicly available information related to warrant records in Union County, Mississippi. Members of the public may use this resource to search for records that could include active warrants, arrest records, court case information, bench warrants, and criminal history data. Information presented reflects publicly available data and may not capture every record in every jurisdiction. Users are encouraged to verify findings through official government sources.
Records may be searched through official resources maintained by the Union County Sheriff's Office, the Union County Circuit Court Clerk, and the Mississippi court system. The Mississippi Administrative Office of Courts maintains the Mississippi Electronic Courts portal, which allows members of the public to search case records statewide. The Union County Circuit Court Clerk's office also maintains case files that may reflect active bench warrants and pending court matters.
To search online, members of the public may visit the Mississippi courts portal and enter a full legal name to retrieve case status information. Court case records showing active warrants, missed court dates, and outstanding obligations are accessible through this system at no charge. Records are updated on a rolling basis as courts process new filings and orders.
Why Check for Warrants:
- Avoid unexpected arrest during a routine traffic stop or other law enforcement encounter
- Resolve outstanding legal obligations proactively before they compound
- Clear up misunderstandings resulting from identity errors or clerical mistakes
- Handle legal matters responsibly and demonstrate good faith to the court
- Obtain peace of mind regarding one's standing with the court system
Warning Signs You May Have a Warrant:
- Missed a scheduled court appearance for any reason
- Failed to pay court-ordered fines, fees, or restitution
- Violated the terms of probation or supervised release
- Aware of pending charges that have not yet been resolved
- A traffic stop resulted in release with a warning rather than a citation
- Received a notice to appear and did not respond or attend
Methods to Check for Warrants:
1. Online Warrant Search
The Mississippi Electronic Courts system, accessible through the Mississippi Judiciary website, allows members of the public to search active case records by name. Results may reflect bench warrants, active arrest warrants, and case status information. The search is free and available to the public without registration. Records are updated regularly as courts process new orders, though very recently issued warrants may not appear immediately due to processing delays.
2. Call Law Enforcement
Members of the public may contact the Union County Sheriff's Office by telephone to inquire about active warrants. The non-emergency line should be used for this purpose — members of the public should not call 911 to inquire about warrant status.
When calling, be prepared to provide:
- Full legal name
- Date of birth
- Social Security number (may be requested)
Anonymous inquiries may not be possible in all circumstances. Individuals who confirm a warrant exists through this method should be aware that law enforcement may be obligated to act on that information.
Union County Sheriff's Office
109 Main Street
New Albany, MS 38652
Phone: (662) 534-1881
Union County Sheriff's Office
3. Visit the Sheriff's Office or Police Department
Members of the public may appear in person at the Union 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. 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 of identity.
Union County Sheriff's Office
109 Main Street
New Albany, MS 38652
Phone: (662) 534-1881
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
Union County Sheriff's Office
4. Contact the Court
The Union County Circuit Court Clerk maintains case files that reflect active bench warrants and court orders. Members of the public may contact the Clerk's office to inquire about case status. The Clerk's office will not initiate an arrest, but an active warrant remains in force regardless of the inquiry.
Union County Circuit Court Clerk
109 Main Street
New Albany, MS 38652
Phone: (662) 534-1900
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
Mississippi Courts
5. Hire an Attorney
Retaining a licensed 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 check warrant status, explain the nature of any charges, and arrange a voluntary surrender if a warrant is confirmed. The Mississippi Bar Lawyer Referral Service can assist members of the public in locating qualified legal counsel.
6. Third-Party Background Check Services
Commercial background check services may display warrant information, but accuracy and currency vary significantly. These services charge fees for information that is available at no cost through official government sources. Members of the public are advised to consult official county and state resources before relying on commercial services.
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 Union County
Important Warnings:
Risk of Immediate Arrest:
- Checking in person may result in arrest if a warrant exists
- Sheriff's deputies are obligated to execute active warrants
- Individuals cannot "check and leave" if a warrant is confirmed on-site
- Attorney inquiry is the safest approach when a warrant is suspected
Don't Delay:
- Warrants do not expire in most circumstances
- Outstanding warrants may compound with additional failure-to-appear charges
- A routine traffic stop can result in arrest if a warrant is active
- Proactive resolution is preferable to an unplanned arrest
What NOT to Do:
- Do not ignore a possible warrant
- Do not flee or attempt to conceal your whereabouts
- Do not provide false information to law enforcement
- Do not resist if arrested
- Do not wait in the hope that a warrant will expire — under current law, most warrants remain active indefinitely
What Is a Search Warrant in Union 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. In Union County, Mississippi, search warrants are governed by both the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and the Mississippi Constitution, Article 3, Section 23, which protects citizens against unreasonable searches and seizures.
Purpose of Search Warrants:
- Protect the privacy rights of individuals against arbitrary government intrusion
- Prevent unreasonable searches by requiring judicial authorization
- Balance the legitimate needs of law enforcement with individual constitutional rights
- Ensure judicial oversight of police investigative actions
- Provide a lawful mechanism for gathering evidence in criminal investigations
Constitutional Basis:
The Fourth Amendment requires that warrants be supported by probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation, and must particularly describe the place to be searched and the persons or things to be seized. A neutral and detached magistrate must review the application before a warrant may issue. The Mississippi Constitution provides parallel protections under Article 3, Section 23.
Legal Requirements:
Under Mississippi Code § 99-3-1, search warrants must meet the following requirements:
- Probable cause supported by a sworn affidavit
- Particularity in describing the location to be searched
- Particularity in describing the items to be seized
- Issuance by a judge or magistrate with proper jurisdiction
- Timely execution within the period specified by the court
- Return of the warrant to the issuing court after execution
When Search Warrants Are Used:
- Drug offense investigations
- Theft and property crime investigations
- White collar and financial crime investigations
- Evidence gathering in violent crime cases
- Seizure of digital evidence, including computers and mobile phones
- Recovery of contraband or stolen property
Difference from Other Warrants:
- Search warrant: Authorizes law enforcement to search a location and seize property
- Arrest warrant: Authorizes law enforcement to arrest a specific person
- Bench warrant: A court order issued for failure to comply with a court directive These warrant types are distinct and are not interchangeable in their legal authority or purpose.
Are Warrants Public Records in Union County?
Warrants in Union County are subject to Mississippi's public records framework, and their accessibility depends on whether the warrant has been executed and whether any sealing order is in effect. Under the Mississippi Public Records Act, court records are accessible to the public subject to specific exemptions.
When Warrants Become Public:
Search Warrants:
- Before execution: Search warrants are sealed and confidential to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation, prevent destruction of evidence, and preserve the element of surprise.
- After execution: The warrant, supporting affidavit, and inventory of seized items become part of the public court record and are accessible through the Clerk of Court.
Arrest Warrants:
- Active warrants: Active arrest warrants are accessible to the public. The subject's name, charges, bond amount, and issuing court are visible in law enforcement databases and court records.
- After arrest: Arrest warrants remain part of the public court case file following execution.
Exceptions and Sealed Warrants:
Certain warrants may remain sealed by court order. Circumstances that may result in sealing include:
- Grand jury proceedings
- Ongoing criminal investigations
- National security matters
- Cases involving confidential informants
- Juvenile proceedings
- Sensitive investigative techniques
The duration of sealing varies by case and is determined by the presiding judge. Most warrants eventually become public record, though certain portions may be permanently redacted to protect informant identities or investigative methods.
What's Publicly Available:
- Active arrest warrant information through law enforcement databases
- Executed search warrant documents filed with the court
- Probable cause affidavits (after execution)
- Inventory of items seized pursuant to a search warrant
- Court case files that include warrant documentation
What's Restricted:
- Unexecuted search warrants
- Sealed investigative warrants
- Confidential informant identities
- Certain law enforcement techniques
- Grand jury materials
How Much Does It Cost to Get Warrant Records in Union County?
Members of the public may inspect warrant records and court case files at the Union County Circuit Court Clerk's office at no charge. Fees apply when copies or certified documents are requested. Under Mississippi Code § 25-61-7, public bodies may charge reasonable fees for the actual cost of reproducing public records.
Current standard fees at the Union County Circuit Court Clerk's office are as follows:
| Record Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Document inspection (in person) | No charge |
| Paper copies (per page) | $0.50 per page |
| Certified copies | $1.00 per page + certification fee |
| Electronic copies (where available) | Varies by request |
| Search fee | No charge for standard name searches |
Accepted payment methods at the Clerk's office include cash, money order, and personal check made payable to the Union County Circuit Court Clerk. Members of the public should contact the Clerk's office directly to confirm current fees before submitting a request, as fees are subject to change.
Fee waivers may be available for indigent individuals upon written request and demonstration of financial hardship. Certain records accessible through the Mississippi Electronic Courts portal are available at no charge to the public.
What Types of Warrants Exist in Union 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 in Union County are issued by Circuit Court judges, County Court judges, or magistrates upon presentation of a sworn affidavit establishing probable cause.
When Issued:
- Felony charges have been filed by the prosecutor
- A grand jury has returned an indictment
- The suspect is not currently in custody
- The individual presents a flight risk prior to formal charging
- Serious misdemeanor charges have been filed
Information in an Arrest Warrant:
- Subject's full legal name and physical description
- Specific criminal charges and statute violations
- Bond amount set by the court
- Name of the issuing court and judge
- Date of issuance and case number
How Executed: Law enforcement locates the subject and may execute the warrant at any location, including the subject's home, workplace, or during a traffic stop. The subject is transported to the Union County Jail, booked, and scheduled for a first appearance hearing.
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 in Union County courts.
Common Reasons:
- Failure to appear (FTA) for a scheduled court date
- Failure to pay court-ordered fines, fees, or restitution
- Violation of probation terms
- Contempt of court
- Failure to complete court-ordered community service
- Non-compliance with other court directives
Resolving Bench Warrants: An attorney may file a motion to recall a bench warrant on behalf of a client. In some cases, the court may allow the individual to reschedule a missed hearing or pay outstanding fines to resolve the warrant without incarceration. Members of the public should contact the Union County Circuit Court Clerk at (662) 534-1900 to inquire about resolution options.
3. Search Warrants
As described above, search warrants authorize law enforcement to search a specific location and seize designated evidence. Under Mississippi Code § 99-3-1, search warrants must be executed within a specified time period and returned to the issuing court with an inventory of items seized.
What Can Be Searched:
- Private residences and apartments
- Vehicles
- Commercial businesses
- Storage units
- Electronic devices, including computers and mobile phones
- Financial records and documents
4. No-Knock Warrants
A no-knock warrant is a specialized search warrant that authorizes law enforcement to enter a premises without prior announcement. These warrants require a higher standard of judicial review and are issued only when specific exigent circumstances exist, such as a credible risk that evidence will be destroyed, a danger to officers, or the presence of armed and violent suspects. Mississippi law requires additional judicial oversight and documentation for no-knock warrant issuance.
5. Governor's Warrants (Extradition)
A Governor's Warrant is issued by the Governor of Mississippi 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, as adopted in Mississippi. The subject may challenge extradition or waive the process and consent to transfer to the requesting state.
6. Capias Warrants (Civil Contempt)
A capias warrant may be issued in civil proceedings, including child support enforcement matters, when an individual fails to comply with a court order. Although arising from civil proceedings, a capias warrant can result in arrest and detention until the individual satisfies a purge amount set by the court.
7. Material Witness Warrants
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 rare 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 traffic citations or failure to pay traffic fines may result in the issuance of a warrant. Traffic warrants carry lower bond amounts in most cases and can be resolved relatively quickly through the appropriate court.
Probation and Parole Violation Warrants: When an individual violates the terms of probation or parole supervision, a warrant may be issued by the supervising officer or the court. These warrants often carry no bond or a high bond amount and require a hearing before a judge to determine whether supervision should be revoked.
Federal Warrants: Federal warrants are issued by federal judges in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi and are separate from county-level warrants. Federal warrants are enforced by federal agencies including the FBI, DEA, ATF, and U.S. Marshals Service. Federal warrant information is not contained in county databases.
What Warrants in Union County Contain
Standard Information in All Warrants:
Every warrant issued in Union County contains identifying header information, including the name of the issuing court, the case number, the name of the presiding judge, the warrant number, and the date of issuance. The warrant is issued in the name of the State of Mississippi and directed to any law enforcement officer within the state.
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)
Charges Section (Arrest Warrants):
- Specific criminal offense or offenses charged
- Statute number or numbers violated, including the applicable § citation
- Degree of offense (felony class or misdemeanor level)
- Number of counts
- Date of the alleged offense
Probable Cause Statement: The warrant references a sworn affidavit or criminal complaint that sets forth the facts supporting probable cause. The affidavit is typically attached to the warrant and becomes part of the public record upon execution.
Bond Information:
- Bond amount as set by the court
- Type of bond authorized (cash, surety, personal recognizance, or no bond)
- Conditions of release, if applicable
Specific to Search Warrants:
Search warrants contain a detailed description of the premises to be searched, including the complete address, physical description of the structure, and any distinguishing features. The warrant also contains a specific list of items to be seized, categorized by type (contraband, stolen property, digital devices, financial records, etc.). A probable cause affidavit prepared by the investigating officer is attached, detailing the investigation, surveillance results, informant information (which may be redacted), and the nexus between the location and the alleged criminal activity.
Search warrants in Mississippi are subject to time limitations and must be executed within the period specified by the issuing judge, after which the warrant expires. Upon execution, the officer must return the warrant to the court with an inventory of all items seized.
Confidential Portions: Certain portions of warrant documents may be sealed or redacted, including informant identities, ongoing investigative techniques, witness addresses, and information related to active investigations.
Who Issues Warrants in Union County
The Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution requires that warrants be issued by a neutral and detached magistrate. Law enforcement officers and prosecutors do not have authority to issue warrants independently. This separation of functions ensures judicial oversight of the warrant process.
Under Mississippi law, the authority to issue warrants is vested in judges and magistrates of courts with proper jurisdiction.
1. Circuit Court Judges
The Union County Circuit Court has full authority to issue all types of warrants, including felony arrest warrants, search warrants, and bench warrants in cases pending before the Circuit Court.
Union County Circuit Court
109 Main Street
New Albany, MS 38652
Phone: (662) 534-1900
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
Mississippi Courts
2. County Court Judges
The Union County Court has authority to issue warrants in misdemeanor cases, traffic matters, and cases within its limited jurisdiction.
Union County Court
109 Main Street
New Albany, MS 38652
Phone: (662) 534-1900
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
Mississippi Courts
3. Magistrates and Justice Court Judges
Justice Court judges in Union County have authority to issue initial arrest warrants and search warrants. Justice Court judges are available to review warrant applications and may issue warrants after hours in urgent circumstances.
Union County Justice Court
109 Main Street
New Albany, MS 38652
Phone: (662) 534-1900
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
Mississippi Courts
Who Requests Warrants:
Union County Sheriff's Office: Sheriff's deputies and investigators conduct criminal investigations, prepare sworn affidavits establishing probable cause, and present warrant applications to the appropriate judge or magistrate.
Union County Sheriff's Office
109 Main Street
New Albany, MS 38652
Phone: (662) 534-1881
Union County Sheriff's Office
New Albany Police Department: City police officers and detectives may present warrant applications to the court for offenses occurring within the city limits of New Albany.
New Albany Police Department
100 West Bankhead Street
New Albany, MS 38652
Phone: (662) 534-1212
City of New Albany
Union County District Attorney's Office: The District Attorney's office reviews investigations, determines charges, and may request arrest warrants or present evidence to a grand jury for indictment.
District Attorney, 17th Circuit Court District
109 Main Street
New Albany, MS 38652
Phone: (662) 534-1900
Mississippi Attorney General
The Warrant Issuance Process:
- Investigation: Law enforcement gathers evidence and establishes probable cause through interviews, physical evidence collection, and documentation.
- Affidavit Preparation: The investigating officer prepares a sworn affidavit detailing the facts supporting probable cause and citing the specific statutory violations.
- Presentation to Judge: The officer or prosecutor presents the affidavit to a judge or magistrate, either in person or through an electronic submission system.
- Judicial Review: The judge independently reviews the affidavit to determine whether probable cause exists and whether constitutional requirements are satisfied.
- 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 or decline to proceed.
- Execution: The signed warrant is provided to law enforcement, entered into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database, and executed by officers.
Who CANNOT Issue Warrants:
- Law enforcement officers acting alone
- Prosecutors without judicial authorization
- Administrative agencies (with narrow exceptions)
- Private citizens
How To Find Outstanding Warrants in Union County
Outstanding warrants are warrants that have been issued by a court but have 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 systems and may be executed at any time without prior notice.
1. Online Warrant and Case Search
Members of the public may search for outstanding warrants through the Mississippi Electronic Courts portal maintained by the Mississippi Administrative Office of Courts. The portal allows searches by party name and returns case status information, including active bench warrants and pending court matters. The search is free and available without registration.
Search results may include:
- Subject name and date of birth
- Warrant type and charges
- Bond amount
- Issue date and case number
- Issuing court
Recently issued warrants may not appear immediately due to processing delays. Sealed warrants will not appear in public search results.
2. County Most Wanted List
The Union County Sheriff's Office may maintain a most wanted list featuring individuals with high-priority outstanding warrants. Members of the public may contact the Sheriff's Office directly to inquire about this resource.
3. Direct Contact with Law Enforcement
Union County Sheriff's Office Warrants Division:
109 Main Street
New Albany, MS 38652
Phone: (662) 534-1881
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
Union County Sheriff's Office
Staff can check the warrant database by name and date of birth. 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 outstanding warrant may exist. The Mississippi Bar Lawyer Referral Service can assist members of the public in locating qualified legal counsel. An attorney may verify warrant status under attorney-client privilege, explain the nature of any charges, and arrange a voluntary surrender if a warrant is confirmed.
5. Clerk of Court
Union County Circuit Court Clerk
109 Main Street
New Albany, MS 38652
Phone: (662) 534-1900
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
Mississippi Courts
The Clerk's office maintains case files that reflect active bench warrants and court orders. Public access terminals are available for self-service searches. Staff can assist with case status inquiries. The Clerk's office will not initiate an arrest, but an active warrant remains in force.
Interpreting Search Results:
If a warrant is found, the individual should note the warrant number, charges, bond amount, issuing court, and issue date. The individual should consult an attorney immediately and not attempt to resolve the matter without legal counsel. Voluntary surrender, arranged through an attorney, is preferable to an unplanned arrest and may result in more favorable treatment by the court.
If no warrant is found, the individual may wish to verify through multiple sources, as recently issued warrants may not yet appear in all databases. An attorney can provide definitive verification.
Limitations of Online Searches:
- Warrants issued within the past 24–72 hours may not yet appear in online databases
- Sealed warrants are not visible in public search results
- Federal warrants are not contained in county databases
- Common names may return multiple results requiring verification by date of birth and other identifiers
How Long Do Warrants Last in Union County?
Under current Mississippi law, arrest warrants and bench warrants do not expire. Once issued by a court, a warrant remains active and enforceable until it is executed, recalled by the issuing court, or otherwise resolved through a judicial proceeding. There is no statute of limitations on the execution of a validly issued warrant.
Search warrants are subject to a specific time limitation. Under Mississippi Code § 99-3-1, a search warrant must be executed within the time period specified by the issuing judge, after which the warrant expires and may not be executed without a new application. The standard execution period is typically ten days from the date of issuance, though the issuing judge may specify a different period based on the circumstances of the case.
Individuals with outstanding arrest or bench warrants should not assume that the passage of time will result in the warrant being dismissed or becoming unenforceable. Warrants entered into the NCIC database are accessible to law enforcement agencies nationwide and may be encountered during any interaction with law enforcement, including routine traffic stops, regardless of how much time has passed since issuance.
How Long Does It Take To Get a Search Warrant in Union County?
The time required to obtain a search warrant in Union County depends on the complexity of the investigation, the availability of the reviewing judge or magistrate, and the method of submission. In straightforward cases where probable cause is clearly established, a search warrant may be reviewed and signed within a matter of hours. In more complex investigations requiring detailed affidavits or involving sensitive circumstances, the process may take longer.
The standard process proceeds as follows: the investigating officer prepares a sworn affidavit establishing probable cause, presents the affidavit to a judge or magistrate with jurisdiction, the judge conducts an independent review, and if probable cause is found, the warrant is signed. In urgent circumstances — such as when evidence is at risk of imminent destruction — officers may contact an on-call magistrate or judge after hours to obtain emergency authorization.
Some Mississippi jurisdictions have implemented electronic warrant systems that allow officers to submit affidavits digitally and receive judicial review and signature without requiring an in-person appearance. This process can significantly reduce the time required to obtain a warrant in time-sensitive situations. Once signed, the warrant is effective immediately and may be executed within the time period specified by the issuing judge.