Monroe County Public Records /Monroe County Warrant Search

Monroe County Warrant Search

How To Check for Warrants in Monroe County in 2026

MonroeCountyRecords.org provides access to publicly available information related to warrant records in Monroe County. Members of the public may find data pertaining to:

Active arrest warrants
Bench warrants
Search warrant case records
Court case status and warrant history
Criminal case filings

Record availability and completeness may vary depending on the issuing authority and the current status of the underlying case.

Members of the public seeking warrant information in Monroe County may access records through several official channels, including the Monroe County Sheriff's Office warrant search portal, the Monroe County Clerk of Courts online case search system, and in-person requests at the courthouse. Online searches are available at no cost and are updated on a regular basis. The Monroe County Clerk of Courts maintains case records that reflect bench warrant status, while the Sheriff's Office database reflects active arrest warrants entered into law enforcement systems.

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 clerical errors or mistaken identity
Handle pending legal matters responsibly and on one's own terms
Obtain peace of mind regarding one's standing with the court

Warning Signs You May Have a Warrant:

Missed a scheduled court appearance
Failed to pay court-ordered fines or costs
Violated terms of probation or community supervision
Aware of pending charges that have not been resolved
A traffic stop resulted in release with a warning rather than a citation
Received a notice to appear and did not comply

Methods to Check for Warrants:

1. Online Warrant Search

The Monroe County Sheriff's Office and the Monroe County Clerk of Courts both maintain publicly accessible online search tools. Members of the public may search by full legal name and date of birth. Results typically display active warrant status, associated charges, bond amounts, and the issuing court. The Monroe County Clerk of Courts case search allows users to search civil and criminal case records, including bench warrant status, at no charge.

2. Call Law Enforcement

Members of the public may contact the Monroe County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line to inquire about warrant status. Callers should be prepared to provide their full legal name, date of birth, and, in some cases, their Social Security number. Anonymous inquiries may not be possible, and individuals should be aware that a confirmed warrant may prompt law enforcement action.

Monroe County Sheriff's Office 5525 College Road Key West, FL 33040 Phone: (305) 292-7000 Monroe County Sheriff's Office

3. Visit the Sheriff's Office or Police Department

Members of the public may appear in person at the Sheriff's Office records window to request a warrant check. A valid government-issued photo identification is required. Individuals should be aware that if an active warrant is confirmed during an in-person visit, deputies are obligated to execute the warrant immediately. Some agencies permit telephone inquiries for certain warrant types before an in-person visit.

Monroe County Sheriff's Office 5525 College Road Key West, FL 33040 Phone: (305) 292-7000 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM Monroe County Sheriff's Office

4. Contact the Court

The Monroe County Clerk of Courts can confirm whether a bench warrant has been issued in connection with a specific case. Court staff will not initiate an arrest, but the warrant remains active and enforceable until resolved. Members of the public may also use public access terminals at the courthouse to search case records.

Monroe County Clerk of Courts 500 Whitehead Street Key West, FL 33040 Phone: (305) 292-3423 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM Monroe County Clerk of Courts

5. Hire an Attorney

Retaining an 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 verify warrant status, explain the nature of the charges, and arrange a voluntary surrender if a warrant is confirmed. The Florida Bar Lawyer Referral Service connects members of the public with licensed Florida attorneys.

6. Third-Party Background Check (Use Caution)

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 encouraged to verify any results obtained through commercial services against official county and court databases.

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 Monroe County

Important Warnings:

Risk of Immediate Arrest: Checking for warrants in person at a law enforcement agency may result in immediate arrest if an active warrant is found. Sheriff's deputies are legally obligated to execute valid warrants. Individuals who suspect a warrant exists are strongly encouraged to consult an attorney before making in-person inquiries.

Don't Delay: Warrants do not expire in most circumstances and may compound with additional charges such as failure to appear. A routine traffic stop can result in arrest on an outstanding warrant. Addressing the matter proactively is preferable to waiting.

What NOT to Do:

Do not ignore a possible warrant
Do not flee or attempt to conceal one's whereabouts
Do not provide false information to law enforcement
Do not resist if arrested
Do not assume a warrant will expire or be dismissed without action

What Is a Search Warrant in Monroe 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. Under the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, members of the public are protected against unreasonable searches and seizures, and law enforcement must obtain judicial authorization before conducting most searches.

Purpose of Search Warrants:

Protect individual privacy rights from arbitrary government intrusion
Prevent unreasonable searches by requiring judicial oversight
Balance legitimate law enforcement needs with constitutional protections
Ensure that evidence gathering is subject to independent judicial review

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. The Florida Constitution, Article I, Section 12 provides parallel protections at the state level, reinforcing the requirement that a neutral magistrate review and approve warrant applications before execution.

Legal Requirements:

Under § 933.04, Florida Statutes, a search warrant may be issued only upon a showing of probable cause supported by affidavit. The affidavit must describe with particularity the place to be searched and the items to be seized. The warrant must be executed within the time period specified by the court, and a return must be filed with the issuing court upon execution.

When Search Warrants Are Used:

Criminal investigations involving drug offenses, theft, or violent crimes
White-collar crime investigations requiring access to financial records
Digital evidence collection from computers, mobile phones, and electronic storage
Investigations involving contraband or illegal weapons
Evidence gathering in homicide and serious felony cases

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

Are Warrants Public Records in Monroe County?

Warrants are subject to Florida's public records law after execution, making most warrant documents accessible to members of the public through the court system. Florida's Chapter 119, Florida Statutes, the Florida Public Records Law, establishes the general right of public access to government records, including court documents.

When Warrants Become Public:

Search Warrants:

Before execution: Search warrants are sealed and confidential. Disclosure prior to execution could compromise an ongoing investigation, allow for the destruction of evidence, or eliminate the element of surprise necessary for effective law enforcement.
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 Courts.

Arrest Warrants:

Active warrants: Active arrest warrants are generally public records. The subject's name, charges, bond amount, and issuing court are visible in law enforcement databases and may be searched by members of the public.
After arrest: Arrest warrants remain part of the public court case file and are accessible through the Clerk of Courts case search system.

Exceptions and Sealed Warrants:

Certain warrants may remain sealed for an extended period or permanently in limited circumstances, including:

Grand jury proceedings and related materials
Ongoing criminal investigations where disclosure would impede law enforcement
National security matters
Cases involving confidential informants or sensitive investigative techniques
Juvenile cases, which are subject to separate confidentiality protections
Witness protection situations

The duration of sealing is determined by the presiding judge based on the specific circumstances of each case. Most sealed warrants eventually become public once the underlying investigation concludes.

What's Publicly Available:

Active arrest warrant searches through the Sheriff's Office online portal
Executed search warrant documents filed with the Clerk of Courts
Probable cause affidavits supporting executed warrants
Inventory of items seized pursuant to a search warrant
Court case files containing warrant-related documents

What's Restricted:

Unexecuted search warrants pending active investigations
Sealed investigative warrants by court order
Confidential informant identities and related information
Certain law enforcement techniques and surveillance methods
Grand jury materials

How Much Does It Cost to Get Warrant Records in Monroe County?

Members of the public may access warrant and court records in Monroe County at varying costs depending on the format and type of record requested. The Monroe County Clerk of Courts provides online case search access at no charge through its public portal.

Standard Fee Schedule:

Record Type	Fee
Online case search	Free
Copies of court records (per page)	$1.00 per page
Certified copies of court records	$2.00 per document + $1.00 per page
Electronic copies (where available)	Varies
Search fee (in-person)	No charge for basic name search

Under § 28.24, Florida Statutes, the Clerk of Courts is authorized to charge statutory fees for copies and certified copies of official records. Inspection of records at the courthouse is permitted at no charge during regular business hours.

Accepted Payment Methods:

Cash
Check or money order payable to the Monroe County Clerk of Courts
Credit or debit card (where available)

Fee Waivers:

Indigent individuals may qualify for a waiver of certain court-related fees. Members of the public seeking a fee waiver should inquire directly with the Clerk of Courts regarding eligibility and the application process.

What Is Available at No Cost:

Online case status searches through the Clerk of Courts portal
Active warrant searches through the Sheriff's Office online system
In-person inspection of public court records at the courthouse

What Types of Warrants Exist in Monroe 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 are issued by a judge or magistrate upon review of a sworn affidavit submitted by law enforcement or a prosecutor.

When Issued:

Felony charges have been filed and the suspect is not in custody
A grand jury has returned an indictment
A suspect presents a flight risk prior to formal charging
Serious misdemeanor charges have been filed

Information in an Arrest Warrant:

Subject's full legal name, aliases, 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 law enforcement agency

How Executed:

Law enforcement officers may execute an arrest warrant at any location, including the subject's home, workplace, or during a traffic stop. Upon arrest, the subject is transported to the Monroe County Detention Center, booked, and scheduled for a first appearance hearing.

2. Bench Warrants

A bench warrant is issued directly by a judge during court proceedings, most commonly for a defendant's failure to appear at a scheduled hearing or failure to comply with a court order. Bench warrants are among the most frequently issued warrant types in Monroe County.

Common Reasons:

Failure to appear (FTA) at a scheduled court date
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

Resolving Bench Warrants:

Members of the public with an active bench warrant may contact the Monroe County Clerk of Courts at (305) 292-3423 to obtain case information. An attorney may file a motion to recall the warrant, arrange a voluntary surrender, or negotiate a hearing date with the court.

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 § 933.04, Florida Statutes, search warrants must be executed within the time period specified by the issuing judge, which is at present ten days from the date of issuance in Florida.

What Can Be Searched:

Private residences and apartments
Vehicles and vessels
Commercial businesses and storage units
Electronic devices including computers and mobile phones
Financial records and documents

4. No-Knock Warrants

A no-knock warrant is a specialized type of search warrant that authorizes law enforcement to enter a premises without prior announcement. These warrants are subject to a higher standard of judicial review and are issued only when there is a documented risk of evidence destruction, danger to officers, or involvement of violent suspects. Florida law requires specific judicial findings before a no-knock warrant may be authorized.

5. Governor's Warrants (Extradition)

A governor's warrant is issued when a fugitive from another state is located in Florida. Upon receipt of an extradition request from the demanding state, the Florida Governor's office may issue a governor's warrant authorizing the arrest and transfer of the individual. The subject may challenge or waive extradition and is held in custody pending transfer to the requesting state.

6. Capias Warrants (Civil Contempt)

A capias warrant is issued in civil proceedings, most commonly for failure to comply with a court order in matters such as child support. Although arising from a civil matter, a capias warrant can result in arrest and detention until the subject 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 has failed to comply with a subpoena. These warrants are relatively rare and are used when a witness's testimony is essential to a criminal proceeding and the witness is actively avoiding service.

Traffic Warrants:

Traffic warrants are issued for failure to appear on traffic citations or failure to pay traffic fines. These warrants are typically associated with lower bond amounts and may be resolved quickly through the traffic court division of the Monroe County Clerk of Courts.

Probation and Parole Violation Warrants:

Warrants for violation of probation or parole are issued upon the recommendation of a probation officer or the Florida Commission on Offender Review. These warrants often carry no bond or a high bond amount and require a hearing before a judge to determine whether a violation occurred and what sanctions apply.

Federal Warrants:

Federal warrants are issued by federal judges in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida and are separate from county-level warrants. Federal warrants are enforced by federal agencies including the FBI, DEA, ATF, and U.S. Marshals Service. Members of the public with questions about federal warrants should contact the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida.

What Warrants in Monroe County Contain

Standard Information in All Warrants:

Header Information:

Court seal and full name of the issuing court
Statement "In the Name of the State of Florida"
Case number and court division
Name of the issuing judge
Warrant number and date of issuance

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

Legal Authority:

Citation to applicable Florida statute
Command directed to any law enforcement officer in the State of Florida
Statement of the court's jurisdiction

Specific to Arrest Warrants:

Charges Section:

Specific criminal offense or offenses charged
Florida statute number or numbers violated
Degree of offense (e.g., first-degree felony, second-degree misdemeanor)
Number of counts
Date of the alleged offense

Probable Cause Statement:

Summary of facts supporting the arrest
Reference to the supporting affidavit or criminal complaint
Officer's sworn attestation
Witness information, which may be partially redacted

Bond Information:

Bond amount as set by the court
Type of bond (cash, surety, personal recognizance, or no bond)
Conditions of release if bond is granted
Special restrictions such as no-contact orders

Execution Instructions:

Directions for executing the warrant
Requirement to bring the subject before the court
Jurisdiction (statewide in Florida)
Special cautions if the subject is considered armed, dangerous, or a flight risk

Specific to Search Warrants:

Premises Description:

Complete street address of the location to be searched
Physical description of the structure including color, type, and distinguishing features
Unit or apartment number where applicable
Cross streets and GPS coordinates in some cases

Items to Be Seized:

Specific description of evidence sought
Categories including contraband, stolen property, instrumentalities of crime, and digital evidence
Financial records and documents where applicable

Probable Cause Affidavit:

Detailed sworn statement of facts by the investigating officer
Summary of the investigation, surveillance, and witness information
Nexus between the location and the alleged criminal activity
Timeliness of the information supporting probable cause

Time Limitations:

Date of issuance and expiration date (at present, ten days in Florida)
Time-of-day restrictions for execution (daytime versus nighttime service)
Special judicial authorization required for nighttime execution

Return Requirements:

Date and time of execution
Inventory of all items seized
Names of persons present during the search
Signature of the executing officer
Filed with the issuing court upon completion

Specific to Bench Warrants:

Identification of the court order that was violated
Original case number and charges
Court date that was missed or obligation that was not fulfilled
Bond amount and conditions for release
Instructions for bringing the subject before the court

Confidential Portions:

Certain portions of warrant documents may be sealed or redacted, including confidential informant identities, ongoing investigative techniques, witness addresses, and information related to active investigations. These redactions are authorized by court order and are consistent with Florida's public records exemptions.

Who Issues Warrants in Monroe County

Constitutional Requirement:

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 independent authority to issue warrants. This separation of functions ensures judicial oversight of the warrant process and protects individual constitutional rights.

State Law Requirements:

Under § 933.01, Florida Statutes, search warrants in Florida may be issued by any judge of a court of record. The statute specifies the grounds upon which a warrant may issue and the procedural requirements that must be satisfied before a judge may authorize a search.

Judges and Courts with Authority:

1. Circuit Court Judges

The Sixteenth Judicial Circuit Court of Florida, which serves Monroe County, has full authority to issue all types of warrants, including felony arrest warrants, search warrants, and bench warrants in circuit court cases.

Sixteenth Judicial Circuit Court – Monroe County 500 Whitehead Street Key West, FL 33040 Phone: (305) 292-3423 Sixteenth Judicial Circuit Court

2. County Court Judges

Monroe County Court judges have authority to issue warrants in misdemeanor cases, traffic matters, and county court proceedings, including bench warrants for failure to appear in county court cases.

Monroe County Court 500 Whitehead Street Key West, FL 33040 Phone: (305) 292-3423 Monroe County Court

3. Magistrates and Hearing Officers

Magistrates and court-appointed hearing officers in Monroe County may issue initial arrest warrants and search warrants and are available after regular court hours for urgent warrant applications. Members of the public seeking after-hours warrant information should contact the Monroe County Sheriff's Office.

Who Requests Warrants:

Monroe County Sheriff's Office:

Sheriff's deputies and investigators conduct criminal investigations, prepare sworn affidavits establishing probable cause, and present warrant applications to the court. The Sheriff's Office is the primary law enforcement agency responsible for warrant execution in unincorporated Monroe County.

Monroe County Sheriff's Office 5525 College Road Key West, FL 33040 Phone: (305) 292-7000 Monroe County Sheriff's Office

Local Police Departments:

City police departments within Monroe County, including the Key West Police Department, also conduct investigations and present warrant applications to the court.

Key West Police Department 1604 N Roosevelt Blvd Key West, FL 33040 Phone: (305) 809-1000 Key West Police Department

State Attorney's Office:

The State Attorney for the Sixteenth Judicial Circuit reviews law enforcement investigations, determines charges, and requests arrest warrants. Assistant State Attorneys are available on call after hours for urgent warrant matters.

State Attorney's Office – Sixteenth Judicial Circuit 530 Whitehead Street, Suite 301 Key West, FL 33040 Phone: (305) 292-3420 State Attorney's Office

The Warrant Issuance Process:

Investigation: Law enforcement gathers evidence, interviews witnesses, and documents findings sufficient to establish probable cause.
Affidavit Preparation: The investigating officer prepares a sworn affidavit detailing the facts supporting probable cause and identifying the suspect or location.
Presentation to Judge: The officer or prosecutor presents the affidavit to a judge or magistrate, either in person or through an electronic warrant 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 probable cause is established, the judge signs the warrant, which 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.

Electronic Warrants:

Florida courts at present utilize electronic warrant systems in many jurisdictions, allowing officers to submit warrant applications digitally and receive judicial approval without appearing in person. Electronic warrants carry the same legal authority as paper warrants.

Who CANNOT Issue Warrants:

Law enforcement officers acting alone, without judicial authorization
Prosecutors without a judicial officer's approval
Administrative agencies, with narrow statutory exceptions
Private citizens

How To Find Outstanding Warrants in Monroe 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 databases and may be executed at any time without prior notice.

Methods to Find Outstanding Warrants:

1. Online Warrant Database

The Monroe County Sheriff's Office maintains a publicly accessible online warrant search tool. Members of the public may search by last name, first name, and date of birth. Results display active warrant status, associated charges, bond amounts, and the issuing court. The Monroe County Clerk of Courts case search also allows users to search case records by party name and review bench warrant status in active cases.

2. County Most Wanted List

The Monroe County Sheriff's Office publishes information about high-priority fugitives with outstanding warrants on its official website. This list is not comprehensive and focuses on individuals actively sought for serious offenses.

3. Direct Contact with Law Enforcement

Monroe County Sheriff's Office Warrants Division 5525 College Road Key West, FL 33040 Phone: (305) 292-7000 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM Monroe County Sheriff's Office

Members of the public may contact the Sheriff's Office by telephone to inquire about warrant status. Providing a full legal name and date of birth is required. Individuals should be aware that an in-person visit to the Sheriff's Office carries a risk of immediate arrest if an active warrant is confirmed.

4. Through the Clerk of Courts

Monroe County Clerk of Courts 500 Whitehead Street Key West, FL 33040 Phone: (305) 292-3423 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM Monroe County Clerk of Courts

The Clerk of Courts maintains case records that reflect bench warrant status. Public access terminals are available at the courthouse for self-service searches. Clerk staff will not initiate an arrest, but any active warrant remains enforceable.

5. Through an Attorney

Retaining an attorney is the safest method for individuals who believe an outstanding warrant may exist. The Florida Bar Lawyer Referral Service connects members of the public with licensed Florida attorneys who can verify warrant status under the protection of attorney-client privilege and arrange a voluntary surrender if necessary.

6. Statewide Resources

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) maintains statewide criminal history and warrant information. Members of the public may submit a personal records request through FDLE to obtain information about their own criminal history record, which may reflect outstanding warrant status.

Search Multiple Jurisdictions:

Warrants may be issued by different courts and law enforcement agencies. Members of the public should check with the Monroe County Sheriff's Office, each city police department in jurisdictions where they have resided or worked, traffic courts, and criminal courts in all counties where legal matters may be pending.

Interpreting Search Results:

If a warrant is found, note the warrant number, charges, bond amount, issuing court, and issue date. Consult an attorney before taking any further action.
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 online databases.
Common names may produce multiple results. Verify by date of birth and other identifying details, and confirm through the Clerk of Courts if uncertain.

Limitations of Online Searches:

Warrants issued within the past several hours or days may not yet appear in online databases
Sealed warrants will not be visible in public search results
Federal warrants are not reflected in county databases
Errors or outdated information may occasionally appear in online systems

What to Do If You Find a Warrant:

Do not panic or attempt to handle the matter without legal counsel
Record all warrant details including the warrant number, charges, and bond amount
Contact a licensed Florida attorney immediately
Do not turn yourself in without legal representation present
Do not discuss the matter with anyone other than your attorney

An attorney may verify that the warrant is real and active, explain the charges and potential consequences, arrange a voluntary surrender at a convenient time, negotiate bond reduction, and appear with the client at all court proceedings. Voluntary surrender is at present viewed more favorably by courts than arrest and may result in more favorable bond conditions.

How Long Do Warrants Last in Monroe County?

Under current Florida law, arrest warrants and bench warrants do not expire. Once issued by a court, an arrest warrant or bench warrant remains active and enforceable indefinitely until it is executed by law enforcement or recalled by the issuing court. There is no statute of limitations on the execution of a valid warrant. A warrant may be recalled only by court order, typically upon the defendant's appearance before the court, payment of outstanding obligations, or upon motion by an attorney.

Search warrants, by contrast, have a defined period of validity. Under Florida law, a search warrant must be executed within ten days of issuance. If not executed within that period, the warrant expires and law enforcement must obtain a new warrant supported by current probable cause before conducting the search. The Florida Rules of Criminal Procedure, Rule 3.121 governs the execution and return of search warrants in Florida courts.

Outstanding warrants entered into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database are accessible to law enforcement agencies nationwide. A warrant issued in Monroe County may be discovered and acted upon during a traffic stop, border crossing, or any other law enforcement encounter anywhere in the United States.

How Long Does It Take To Get a Search Warrant in Monroe County?

The time required to obtain a search warrant in Monroe County depends on the complexity of the investigation, the availability of the reviewing judge, and whether the application 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.

The process follows this general order:

Investigation and evidence gathering: This phase may take days, weeks, or months depending on the nature of the case.
Affidavit preparation: The investigating officer drafts a sworn affidavit detailing the facts supporting probable cause. This typically takes several hours to complete.
Submission to the court: The affidavit and proposed warrant are submitted to a judge or magistrate for review, either in person or through an electronic warrant system.
Judicial review: The judge reviews the affidavit, may ask clarifying questions, and determines whether probable cause is established. This review may take minutes to several hours.
Signing and issuance: If approved, the judge signs the warrant, which becomes effective immediately upon signature.
Execution: Law enforcement executes the warrant within the ten-day validity period established under Florida law.

In urgent circumstances, such as when evidence is at risk of imminent destruction, law enforcement may contact an on-call judge or magistrate after hours to obtain emergency authorization. Florida courts at present permit telephonic and electronic warrant applications to facilitate timely judicial review in time-sensitive situations. The Sixteenth Judicial Circuit Court administers the warrant process for Monroe County.