*Edit: I reached out to the courts again. This time I got a bit more information. Despite the background check stating the Bench Warrant was because of failure to show, the clerk stated it is because of an unpaid fine. She states it shows I made a payment but there is still a balance. The fine was only $150, and I'm 99.9% I paid the entire amount. The clerk stated she could not tell me how much was paid nor how much was still owed. So, at this point it appears I still need a lawyer. It is not financially feasible for me to fly to CA, nor payout large amounts in lawyer fees. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
TO CONTEST AN OLD BW YOU MUST MAKE A MOTION TO ADD TO CALENDAR AND THEN EXPLAIN TO THE COURT WHAT HAPPENED.
AS A RULE YOU CAN NOT DO ANYTHING OVER THE PHONE OR VIA MAIL.
A PUBLIC DEFENDER "MAY" BE ABLE TO HELP YOU.
I would advise you to contact the public defender's office in the county where the warrant was issued. They may be able to assist you or refer you to someone in the area who can.