Warrant Search

Fall River, Massachusetts Warrant Records

Are Warrants Public Record in Fall River, Massachusetts?

Warrant records are public in Fall River, Massachusetts, pursuant to the Massachusetts Public Records Law (M.G.L. Chapter 66, Section 10). This statute establishes that most governmental records must be accessible to the public to ensure transparency and accountability in governmental operations. Warrant records, maintained by law enforcement agencies and the courts, fall within the scope of this legislation.

The public nature of warrant records stems from their integral role in the judicial process. These documents provide citizens with information about legal actions taken by law enforcement and the judiciary, offering insight into the application of justice within the community. In accordance with the principles of open governance established in Massachusetts General Laws, the availability of such records enables citizens to remain informed about legal proceedings occurring within Fall River.

The City Clerk's office maintains various public records, including those related to warrants and legal proceedings. Additionally, the public records division of Fall River supports the public's right to access records created and maintained by the City in the course of official business.

Where Can I Find Warrants Online in Fall River?

Citizens seeking warrant information online in Fall River may utilize several official resources:

  • Massachusetts Trial Court Electronic Case Access: This portal allows searches for public court records, including warrants. Access is available through the Massachusetts Court System website.

  • Fall River Police Department Website: The department maintains records of active warrants and may provide limited search capabilities or information about how to access warrant records.

    Fall River Police Department
    685 Pleasant Street
    Fall River, MA 02721
    (508) 676-8511
    Fall River Police Department

  • Bristol County District Court: Court records, including warrant information, may be accessible through the district court serving Fall River.

    Bristol County District Court
    186 South Main Street
    Fall River, MA 02721
    (508) 491-3200

  • Massachusetts Warrant Search Services: The Commonwealth provides warrant search services through various official channels, allowing interested persons to query police departments, Sheriff's offices, or courthouses in the judicial district.

How to Know If You Have a Warrant in Fall River in 2025

Individuals seeking to determine if they have an outstanding warrant in Fall River may employ several methods in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 276, which governs warrant procedures. The following official channels are available:

  • Fall River Police Department Records Division: Citizens may contact the Records Division directly to inquire about warrant status.

    Fall River Police Department Records Division
    685 Pleasant Street
    Fall River, MA 02721
    (508) 676-8511 ext. 263
    Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

  • Bristol County Sheriff's Office: This agency maintains records of warrants issued within the county jurisdiction.

    Bristol County Sheriff's Office
    400 Faunce Corner Road
    Dartmouth, MA 02747
    (508) 995-6400
    Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

  • Fall River District Court Clerk's Office: Court clerks can provide information regarding warrants issued by the court.

    Fall River District Court
    186 South Main Street
    Fall River, MA 02721
    (508) 491-3200
    Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

  • Massachusetts Trial Court Electronic Case Access: The online system allows name-based searches for court records, including warrant information.

How to Check For Outstanding Warrants in Fall River

Pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 276, Section 23A, which governs the issuance and execution of warrants, citizens may verify the existence of outstanding warrants through several official channels:

  • In-Person Inquiry at the Fall River Police Department: Individuals may visit the Records Division to request warrant information. Photo identification is required.

    Fall River Police Department Records Division
    685 Pleasant Street
    Fall River, MA 02721
    (508) 676-8511 ext. 263
    Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

  • Bristol County Sheriff's Office Warrant Division: This office maintains a database of active warrants within the county.

    Bristol County Sheriff's Office
    400 Faunce Corner Road
    Dartmouth, MA 02747
    (508) 995-6400
    Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

  • Fall River District Court: The clerk's office can provide information on warrants issued by the court.

    Fall River District Court
    186 South Main Street
    Fall River, MA 02721
    (508) 491-3200
    Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

  • City Auditor's Office: The City Auditor's office processes and approves city warrants, which may include certain types of legal warrants.

Contents of a Fall River Warrant Records

In accordance with Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 276, which governs criminal process and warrant procedures, Fall River warrant records typically contain the following information:

  • Subject Identification: Full legal name of the individual for whom the warrant is issued, date of birth, last known address, and when available, physical description and identifying characteristics.

  • Warrant Classification: Designation of warrant type (e.g., arrest warrant, bench warrant, search warrant) as defined under M.G.L. Chapter 276, Sections 1-7.

  • Case Information: Docket number, originating court, and date of issuance. For criminal matters, the Fall River District Court or Bristol County Superior Court will be indicated as the issuing authority.

  • Offense Details: Statutory citation and description of the alleged violation(s) of Massachusetts General Laws or Fall River Municipal Code.

  • Bail Information: When applicable, predetermined bail amount or notation regarding bail determination upon apprehension.

  • Issuing Authority: Name and title of the judicial officer who authorized the warrant, typically a judge or magistrate of the Fall River District Court.

  • Service Instructions: Specific directives for law enforcement regarding execution of the warrant, including jurisdictional limitations and special considerations.

  • Return Information: Documentation regarding the execution or attempted execution of the warrant by law enforcement personnel.

The Municipal Hearings Officer in Fall River hears appeals related to various citations, which may be relevant to certain warrant situations. Additionally, various forms and applications related to legal proceedings are available through the City Clerk's office.

Search Warrant Records in Fall River, Massachusetts