Verified by Licensed Bail Bond Professionals•Last updated: March 2026
Definition: A court order (warrant) directing law enforcement to arrest a specific person and bring them before the court. A capias is similar to a bench warrant but is typically issued for failure to comply with a court order or sentencing condition.
Category: Warrants · Statute: F.S. 901.02 · Source: Florida Legislature
Capias vs. Bench Warrant vs. Arrest Warrant
- Arrest warrant — Issued based on probable cause that a crime was committed
- Bench warrant — Issued by a judge for failure to appear or contempt
- Capias — Issued to bring someone before the court, often for sentencing violations
Common Reasons for a Capias
- Failure to appear for sentencing
- Failure to complete court-ordered programs
- Failure to pay restitution
- Probation violation (VOP capias)
Bail on a Capias
Bail may or may not be available. Some capias warrants include a preset bail amount; others require a court appearance before the judge.