Smith County Warrant Search
How To Check for Warrants in Smith County in 2026
SmithRecords.org provides access to publicly available information related to warrant records in Smith County, Texas. Members of the public may use this resource to search for data that could include active warrants, court case information, and related criminal justice records. The following categories of records may be available:
- Active arrest warrants
- Bench warrants for failure to appear
- Search warrant case filings
- Court disposition records
- Probation violation warrants
Warrant records may be searched through several official channels in Smith County. The Smith County Sheriff's Office maintains an online warrant search tool through the Texas Department of Public Safety, which allows members of the public to query active warrant information by name and date of birth. The Smith County District Clerk provides online case search access through the county's official web portal, where bench warrants and case statuses are reflected in court records. Additionally, the Tyler Police Department maintains records for warrants originating from municipal court proceedings within the City of Tyler.
To search online, members of the public may:
- Visit the Smith County official website at smith.tx.us and navigate to the District Clerk's case search portal
- Use the Texas Department of Public Safety's crime records service for statewide warrant data
- Access the Tyler Municipal Court online portal for city-level warrant and citation records
Why Check for Warrants
Checking for outstanding warrants serves several important legal and personal interests:
- 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 clerical errors or identity confusion
- Handle legal matters responsibly and in a timely manner
- Obtain peace of mind regarding one's standing with the courts
Warning Signs You May Have a Warrant
Certain circumstances may indicate that a warrant has been issued. These include:
- A missed court appearance, whether intentional or due to failure to receive notice
- Failure to pay court-ordered fines or fees within the required timeframe
- Violation of probation or community supervision terms
- Awareness of pending criminal charges that have not yet been resolved
- A traffic stop that resulted in release with a warning rather than a citation
- Receipt of a notice to appear that was not acted upon
Methods to Check for Warrants
1. Online Warrant Search
The Smith County Sheriff's Office and District Clerk both provide online access to warrant and case information. Members of the public may search by full legal name and date of birth. These databases are updated on a regular basis and reflect active warrants at the time of the search. The Smith County District Clerk case search is free to access and does not require registration.
2. Call Law Enforcement
Members of the public may contact the Smith County Sheriff's Office by telephone to inquire about warrant status. The non-emergency line should be used for this purpose — 911 should not be called for warrant inquiries.
Smith County Sheriff's Office 6000 S. Broadway Ave. Tyler, TX 75703 Phone: (903) 566-6600 Smith County Sheriff's Office
When calling, be prepared to provide:
- Full legal name
- Date of birth
- Social Security number (may be requested in some circumstances)
Anonymous inquiries may not always be possible. Individuals should be aware that if a warrant is confirmed, law enforcement may be obligated to take action.
3. Visit the Sheriff's Office or Police Department
Members of the public may appear in person at the Smith County Sheriff's Office or the Tyler Police Department to request a warrant check at the records window.
Smith County Sheriff's Office 6000 S. Broadway Ave. Tyler, TX 75703 Phone: (903) 566-6600 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Smith County Sheriff's Office
Tyler Police Department 711 W. Ferguson St. Tyler, TX 75702 Phone: (903) 531-1000 Tyler Police Department
Warning: Individuals who appear in person and are found to have an active warrant may be subject to immediate arrest. Sheriff's deputies and police officers are legally obligated to execute active warrants upon confirmation.
4. Contact the Court
The Smith County District Clerk's Office maintains court records, including bench warrants. Staff at the clerk's office can confirm whether a warrant appears in a case file. Contacting the clerk does not initiate an arrest, though the warrant remains active.
Smith County District Clerk 100 N. Broadway Ave., Suite 204 Tyler, TX 75702 Phone: (903) 590-1660 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Smith County District Clerk
5. Hire an Attorney
Retaining an attorney is the safest method for individuals who have reason to believe a warrant may exist. Communications between an attorney and client are protected by attorney-client privilege. An attorney may check warrant status without triggering an immediate arrest and can arrange a voluntary surrender if a warrant is confirmed. The State Bar of Texas 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 include warrant information in their reports. However, the accuracy and currency of such data varies 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 third-party services.
What Information You Will Need
To conduct a warrant search through any of the above methods, the following information is typically required:
- Full legal name
- Any aliases or former names
- Date of birth
- Social Security number (helpful but not always required)
- Previous addresses in Smith County
Important Warnings
Risk of Immediate Arrest: Individuals who check for warrants in person at a law enforcement agency and are found to have an active warrant may be arrested on the spot. Deputies and officers cannot permit an individual to leave once a warrant is confirmed. Consulting an attorney before any in-person inquiry is strongly advisable when a warrant is suspected.
Warrants Do Not Expire: Outstanding warrants in Texas do not expire or become void through the passage of time. An unresolved warrant may result in arrest during any law enforcement encounter, including routine traffic stops. Additional charges, such as failure to appear under Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Art. 45.014, may be added if a warrant is not addressed.
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 an arrest is made
- Do not assume a warrant will become inactive over time
What Is a Search Warrant in Smith 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 Smith County, search warrants are governed by the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, which establishes the procedural and constitutional requirements for their issuance and execution.
Constitutional Basis
The Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects individuals against unreasonable searches and seizures and requires that warrants be supported by probable cause, issued upon oath or affirmation, and particular in describing the place to be searched and the items to be seized. The Texas Constitution, Article I, Section 9, provides parallel protections under state law, and in some respects affords broader individual rights than the federal standard.
Legal Requirements
Under Texas Code of Criminal Procedure § 18.01, a search warrant may only be issued upon a sworn affidavit establishing probable cause. The affidavit must set forth sufficient facts to allow a neutral magistrate to independently determine that probable cause exists. The warrant must:
- Identify the specific location to be searched with particularity
- Describe the specific items or evidence to be seized
- Be supported by a sworn oath or affirmation
- Be reviewed and signed by a judge or magistrate
- Be executed within the timeframe specified by law
When Search Warrants Are Used
Search warrants are employed across a broad range of criminal investigations, including:
- Drug offenses and controlled substance investigations
- Theft and property crimes
- White-collar and financial crimes
- Violent crime investigations
- Digital evidence collection from computers and mobile devices
- Contraband and weapons offenses
Difference from Other Warrants
| Warrant Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Search Warrant | Authorizes law enforcement to search a location and seize property |
| Arrest Warrant | Authorizes law enforcement to arrest a specific individual |
| Bench Warrant | Court order issued for failure to comply with a court directive |
These warrant types are distinct legal instruments and are not interchangeable.
Are Warrants Public Records in Smith County?
Warrants in Smith County are subject to the Texas Public Information Act, which establishes the public's right of access to government records. As a general matter, warrants become public records following their execution, though certain categories of warrant information may remain confidential under specific statutory exemptions.
When Warrants Become Public
Search Warrants:
- Prior to execution, search warrants are sealed to protect the integrity of the investigation, prevent destruction of evidence, and preserve the element of surprise
- Following execution, the warrant, supporting affidavit, and inventory of seized items are filed with the court and become part of the public case record
- Members of the public may inspect executed search warrant records through the Smith County District Clerk's Office
Arrest Warrants:
- Active arrest warrants are accessible to the public through the Sheriff's Office warrant database and the District Clerk's case search system
- Information typically visible includes the subject's name, charges, bond amount, and issuing court
- Following arrest, warrant records remain part of the permanent court case file
Exceptions and Sealed Warrants
Certain warrants may remain sealed or partially redacted under Texas law. These include:
- Warrants related to ongoing criminal investigations
- Grand jury proceedings
- Cases involving confidential informants
- Juvenile matters
- National security or sensitive law enforcement technique cases
- Witness protection situations
The duration of sealing varies by case and is determined by the presiding judge. Most sealed warrants eventually become accessible to the public, though portions containing confidential informant identities or sensitive investigative methods may be permanently redacted.
Public Records Law Application
The Texas Public Information Act governs access to warrant records held by government agencies in Smith County. Law enforcement agencies may assert exemptions for records related to active investigations or that would interfere with the detection or prosecution of crime. Court records, including warrant filings, are separately governed by the Texas Rules of Civil and Criminal Procedure and the policies of the Office of Court Administration.
How Much Does It Cost to Get Warrant Records in Smith County?
Members of the public may access warrant and court records in Smith County at varying costs depending on the type of record requested and the format in which it is provided.
Standard Fee Schedule
| Record Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Online case search (District Clerk) | Free |
| Copies of court records (paper) | $1.00 per page |
| Certified copies of court records | $5.00 per document plus $1.00 per page |
| Electronic copies (where available) | Varies by request |
| In-person records inspection | No charge |
Fees for copies of public records held by the Smith County Sheriff's Office are governed by the Texas Public Information Act, which sets standard charges for paper copies at $0.10 per page for standard black-and-white reproductions. Certification fees and labor charges may apply for large or complex requests.
Accepted Payment Methods
The Smith County District Clerk's Office accepts cash, check, money order, and credit or debit card for records fees. Members of the public should confirm accepted payment methods directly with the relevant office prior to submitting a request.
Fee Waivers
Under the Texas Public Information Act, fee waivers may be available for indigent requestors or when disclosure is determined to be in the public interest. Requests for fee waivers must be submitted in writing and are subject to agency review.
What Is Available at No Cost
- Online case status searches through the District Clerk's portal
- In-person inspection of public court records
- Active warrant searches through the Sheriff's Office online database
- General warrant status inquiries by telephone
What Types of Warrants Exist in Smith County
Smith County courts and law enforcement agencies issue several distinct categories of warrants, each serving a specific legal function under Texas law.
1. Arrest Warrants
An arrest warrant is a court order authorizing law enforcement to take a named individual into custody based on probable cause that the person has committed a criminal offense. Arrest warrants in Smith County are issued by district court judges, county court judges, and magistrates upon presentation of a sworn affidavit establishing probable cause.
Arrest warrants are issued in circumstances including:
- Felony charges filed by the District Attorney's Office
- Indictment returned by a grand jury
- Serious misdemeanor charges where the suspect is not in custody
- Situations where a suspect presents a flight risk
An arrest warrant contains the subject's full legal name and description, the specific criminal charges and statute violations, the bond amount set by the court, the name of the issuing judge, and any special cautions such as armed and dangerous designations. Once issued, the warrant is entered into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database and may be executed anywhere within the state of Texas.
2. Bench Warrants
A bench warrant is issued directly by a judge from the bench when a party fails to comply with a court order. Bench warrants are among the most common warrant types in Smith County and are issued for:
- Failure to appear at a scheduled court hearing
- Failure to pay court-ordered fines or costs
- Violation of probation or community supervision terms
- Contempt of court
- Failure to complete court-ordered community service
Bench warrants differ from arrest warrants in that they arise from court-related violations rather than new criminal conduct. Bond amounts on bench warrants are often lower, and in some cases an attorney may file a motion to recall the warrant before an arrest occurs. Members of the public who believe a bench warrant has been issued against them may contact the Smith County District Clerk at (903) 590-1660 to inquire about case status.
3. Search Warrants
As described in the preceding section, search warrants authorize law enforcement to enter and search a specific location and seize designated evidence. Under Texas Code of Criminal Procedure § 18.01, search warrants must be executed within a specified number of days from issuance and must be returned to the issuing court following execution along with an inventory of items seized.
Locations subject to search warrants may include:
- Private residences and apartments
- Vehicles
- Commercial businesses
- Storage units
- Electronic devices and digital storage media
- Financial records and documents
4. No-Knock Warrants
A no-knock warrant is a specialized form of search warrant that authorizes law enforcement to enter a premises without prior announcement. These warrants are subject to heightened judicial scrutiny 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 involvement of armed and violent suspects. Texas law requires specific judicial findings before a no-knock warrant may be authorized, and their use is subject to ongoing legislative and policy review.
5. Governor's Warrants (Extradition)
When an individual wanted in another state is located in Texas, the Governor of Texas may issue a Governor's Warrant to authorize the arrest and extradition of the fugitive pursuant to the Uniform Criminal Extradition Act. The subject of a Governor's Warrant may be held in Smith County pending transfer to the requesting state and has the right to challenge extradition through a writ of habeas corpus.
6. Capias Warrants
A capias warrant is issued in civil or quasi-criminal proceedings to compel the appearance of a party who has failed to comply with a court order, most commonly in child support enforcement or civil contempt matters. A capias warrant can result in arrest and detention until the subject appears before the court or pays a specified purge amount.
7. Material Witness Warrants
A material witness warrant may be issued to compel the appearance of a witness who has failed to respond to a subpoena or who is believed to be avoiding service. These warrants are relatively rare but may be issued in serious criminal cases where witness testimony is essential.
Traffic Warrants
Failure to appear on a traffic citation or failure to pay traffic fines in Smith County may result in the issuance of a warrant. Traffic warrants typically carry lower bond amounts and may be resolved through the Tyler Municipal Court or the Smith County Justice of the Peace courts without incarceration in many cases.
Probation and Parole Violation Warrants
When an individual under community supervision violates the terms of their probation or parole, a warrant may be issued by the supervising court or the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles. These warrants often carry no bond or a high bond amount and require a hearing before the supervising judge before the matter can be resolved.
Federal Warrants
Federal warrants are issued by judges of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, which has jurisdiction over Smith County. Federal warrants are separate from county warrants, are enforced by federal agencies including the FBI, DEA, ATF, and U.S. Marshals Service, and do not appear in county warrant databases. Information regarding federal warrants may be obtained through the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas.
What Warrants in Smith County Contain
Warrants issued in Smith County contain standardized information required by Texas law and constitutional mandate. The specific contents vary by warrant type.
Header Information (All Warrants)
- Court name and seal
- "In the Name and by the Authority of the State of Texas"
- Case number and court division
- Presiding judge's name
- Warrant number and issue date
Subject Identification
All warrants include identifying information for the subject, which may include:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth
- Physical description (height, weight, race, eye color, hair color, identifying marks)
- Last known address
- Driver's license number (where applicable)
Arrest Warrant Contents
An arrest warrant specifies the criminal offense or offenses charged, the applicable statute number or numbers violated, the degree of the offense (felony class or misdemeanor level), the number of counts, the date of the alleged offense, and the bond amount set by the court. The warrant also contains a probable cause statement or reference to the supporting affidavit, the issuing judge's signature and court seal, and instructions to any law enforcement officer in the State of Texas to arrest the named individual.
Search Warrant Contents
A search warrant contains a precise description of the premises to be searched, including the complete address, physical description of the structure, and any distinguishing features. The warrant specifies the items to be seized with particularity, the date of issuance, the expiration date for execution, and any restrictions on the time of day during which the search may be conducted. The supporting probable cause affidavit, which details the officer's investigation and the factual basis for the search, is attached to or incorporated into the warrant. Following execution, the officer must complete a return documenting the date and time of the search, the items seized, and the persons present.
Bench Warrant Contents
A bench warrant identifies the original case number and charges, the specific court order that was violated, the court date that was missed or obligation that was unfulfilled, the bond amount, and instructions for bringing the subject before the court. Bench warrants also include information regarding conditions for release and, in some cases, a purge amount that may be paid to resolve the warrant.
Confidential Portions
Certain portions of warrant documents may be sealed or redacted, including the identities of confidential informants, details of ongoing investigative techniques, witness addresses, and information that could compromise an active investigation.
Who Issues Warrants in Smith County
The authority to issue warrants in Smith County is vested exclusively in members of the judiciary, consistent with the requirements of the Fourth Amendment and Texas Code of Criminal Procedure § 15.03. Law enforcement officers and prosecutors do not have independent authority to issue warrants.
Courts with Warrant Authority
1. District Court Judges
Smith County is served by multiple district courts with jurisdiction over felony criminal matters. District court judges have full authority to issue arrest warrants, search warrants, and bench warrants in cases within their jurisdiction.
Smith County District Courts 100 N. Broadway Ave. Tyler, TX 75702 Phone: (903) 590-1660 Smith County District Clerk
2. County Court Judges
County courts at law in Smith County have jurisdiction over Class A and Class B misdemeanor cases and may issue arrest warrants, bench warrants, and search warrants in matters within their jurisdiction.
Smith County County Courts at Law 100 N. Broadway Ave. Tyler, TX 75702 Phone: (903) 590-1660 Smith County District Clerk
3. Magistrates and Justices of the Peace
Magistrates and Justices of the Peace in Smith County have authority to issue initial arrest warrants and search warrants upon presentation of a sworn affidavit establishing probable cause. Justices of the Peace are available to review warrant applications after regular court hours for urgent matters.
Smith County Justice of the Peace Courts 200 E. Ferguson St. Tyler, TX 75702 Phone: (903) 590-4670 Smith County Justice of the Peace
4. Municipal Court Judges
The Tyler Municipal Court has authority to issue warrants for violations of city ordinances and Class C misdemeanor traffic offenses within the City of Tyler. Municipal court judges cannot issue felony warrants.
Tyler Municipal Court 711 W. Ferguson St. Tyler, TX 75702 Phone: (903) 531-1000 Tyler Municipal Court
Who Requests Warrants
Warrants are requested by law enforcement officers and prosecutors who present sworn affidavits to the court establishing probable cause. In Smith County, warrant requests originate from:
Smith County Sheriff's Office 6000 S. Broadway Ave. Tyler, TX 75703 Phone: (903) 566-6600 Smith County Sheriff's Office
Tyler Police Department 711 W. Ferguson St. Tyler, TX 75702 Phone: (903) 531-1000 Tyler Police Department
Smith County District Attorney's Office 100 N. Broadway Ave., 4th Floor Tyler, TX 75702 Phone: (903) 590-1720 Smith County District Attorney
The Warrant Issuance Process
The process by which a warrant is issued in Smith County follows a structured sequence:
- Investigation — Law enforcement officers gather evidence, interview witnesses, and document facts establishing probable cause
- Affidavit Preparation — The investigating officer prepares a sworn affidavit detailing the facts supporting the warrant request
- Presentation to Judge — The officer or prosecutor presents the affidavit to a judge or magistrate, either in person or through an authorized electronic submission process
- 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 probable cause is found, the judge signs the warrant, which becomes effective immediately upon signing; if denied, the officer may supplement the affidavit or decline to proceed
- Entry into Databases — The signed warrant is entered into the NCIC and state law enforcement databases and distributed to the appropriate law enforcement agency for execution
Who Cannot Issue Warrants
Law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and administrative agencies do not have authority to issue warrants on their own initiative. All warrants must be reviewed and signed by a neutral judicial officer as a constitutional safeguard against unreasonable searches and seizures.
How To Find Outstanding Warrants in Smith County
Outstanding warrants are warrants that have been issued by a court but have not yet been executed — meaning the subject has not yet been arrested or the search has not yet been conducted. Active warrants remain in law enforcement databases indefinitely and may be executed at any time.
Methods to Find Outstanding Warrants
1. Online Warrant Database
The Smith County Sheriff's Office provides public access to active warrant information through its online records portal. Members of the public may search by last name, first name, and date of birth. Results display the subject's name, warrant type, charges, bond amount, issue date, and case number. The database is updated on a regular basis, though warrants issued within the preceding 24 to 48 hours may not yet appear.
The Smith County District Clerk case search also allows members of the public to search court case records by party name, which will reflect bench warrants and active case statuses.
2. Direct Contact with Law Enforcement
Smith County Sheriff's Office Warrants Division 6000 S. Broadway Ave. Tyler, TX 75703 Phone: (903) 566-6600 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Smith County Sheriff's Office
Members of the public may call the non-emergency line to inquire about warrant status. Staff can check the database by name and date of birth. Individuals who appear in person and are found to have an active warrant are subject to immediate arrest.
3. Clerk of Court
Smith County District Clerk 100 N. Broadway Ave., Suite 204 Tyler, TX 75702 Phone: (903) 590-1660 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Smith County District Clerk
The District Clerk's Office maintains court case files that reflect warrant status. Staff can confirm whether a bench warrant appears in a case record. Contacting the clerk does not initiate an arrest, though the warrant remains active and enforceable.
4. Through an Attorney
Retaining an attorney is the safest method for individuals who have reason to believe a warrant may exist. The State Bar of Texas Lawyer Referral Service can assist members of the public in locating qualified criminal defense counsel. An attorney may verify warrant status through privileged channels, arrange a voluntary surrender at a mutually agreed time, negotiate bond reduction, and appear with the client at the time of surrender.
5. Statewide Resources
The Texas Department of Public Safety Crime Records Service provides access to statewide criminal history and warrant information. The Texas Judicial Branch case search portal may also reflect case statuses across multiple counties.
Interpreting Search Results
If a warrant is found, the individual should:
- Record all warrant details, including the warrant number, charges, bond amount, and issuing court
- Refrain from attempting to resolve the matter without legal counsel
- Contact a licensed attorney immediately
- Not attempt to flee or conceal their whereabouts
- Allow the attorney to arrange a voluntary surrender
If no warrant is found, members of the public may wish to verify results through multiple official sources, as recently issued warrants may not yet appear in all databases. Federal warrants are not reflected in county databases and must be verified separately through the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas.
Limitations of Online Searches
Online warrant databases reflect information available at the time of the search and may not include warrants issued within the preceding hours or days. Sealed warrants do not appear in public databases. Common names may return multiple results, and individuals should verify results by date of birth and other identifying information before drawing conclusions.
How Long Do Warrants Last in Smith County?
Under Texas law, arrest warrants and bench warrants do not expire. Once issued by a court, a warrant remains active and enforceable until it is executed through the arrest of the named individual or recalled by the issuing court. There is no statute of limitations on the execution of a warrant after it has been issued.
Search warrants, by contrast, are subject to a strict execution deadline. Under Texas Code of Criminal Procedure § 18.07, a search warrant must be executed within three days from the time of issuance, excluding the day of issuance and the day of execution. A search warrant that is not executed within this period expires and cannot be used. Law enforcement must obtain a new warrant if the original expires before execution.
The practical consequence of the indefinite duration of arrest and bench warrants is that an individual with an outstanding warrant may be arrested at any time — during a traffic stop, at a place of employment, or at a residence — regardless of how much time has passed since the warrant was issued. Warrants do not become void through inaction, and the passage of time does not diminish their legal force.
How Long Does It Take To Get a Search Warrant in Smith County?
The time required to obtain a search warrant in Smith County depends on the complexity of the investigation, the availability of the reviewing judge or magistrate, and whether the request is submitted during regular court hours or on an emergency basis.
In straightforward cases where probable cause is clearly established and the affidavit is well-prepared, a search warrant may be reviewed and signed within a matter of hours. Law enforcement officers in Smith County may present warrant applications to a judge or magistrate in person at the courthouse during regular business hours, or may contact an on-call magistrate after hours for urgent matters that cannot wait until the next business day.
The process follows this general sequence:
- The investigating officer prepares a sworn affidavit documenting the facts establishing probable cause
- The affidavit is reviewed by the officer's supervisor and, in complex cases, by the District Attorney's Office
- The completed application is presented to a judge or magistrate for review
- The judge asks questions, reviews the affidavit, and makes an independent determination of probable cause
- If probable cause is found, the warrant is signed and returned to the officer for execution
- The officer must execute the warrant within three days of issuance under Texas law
In cases involving complex financial crimes, digital evidence, or multi-agency investigations, the preparation of the probable cause affidavit may take days or weeks before the application is presented to a judge. The judicial review itself, once the application is submitted, is conducted as promptly as the court's schedule permits. Emergency search warrants for time-sensitive situations — such as cases involving imminent destruction of evidence — may be processed within hours through the on-call magistrate system.