Wood County Warrant Search
How To Check for Warrants in Wood County in 2026
WoodCountyRecords.us provides access to publicly available information related to warrant records in Wood County. Members of the public may find data pertaining to the following record categories:
- Active arrest warrants
- Bench warrants
- Search warrant case filings
- Court case status records
- Criminal history and booking records
This information is drawn from official public sources and is intended for informational purposes only.
Records may be searched through official resources maintained by the Wood County Sheriff's Office, the Wood County Clerk of Courts, and the Ohio Courts of Common Pleas. Online access is available through the Ohio Court of Common Pleas case search portal, which allows members of the public to search active case records by party name at no cost. The Wood County Clerk of Courts also maintains an online docket system accessible through the county's official web presence.
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 in a timely manner
- 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 the terms of probation or community control
- Aware of pending criminal 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 Wood County Sheriff's Office and the Ohio Supreme Court's online case information system provide free public access to active warrant and case status information. Members of the public may search by full legal name and date of birth. Results are updated on a regular basis and display active warrants, associated charges, bond amounts, and case numbers. Bench warrants are visible within the court's case management system under the relevant case file.
2. Call Law Enforcement
Members of the public may contact the Wood 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, when applicable, their Social Security number. Anonymous inquiries may not be accommodated in all circumstances. Individuals should be aware that if a warrant is confirmed, law enforcement may be obligated to take action.
Wood County Sheriff's Office One Courthouse Square Bowling Green, OH 43402 Phone: (419) 354-9001 Wood 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 inquiry, deputies are obligated to execute that warrant immediately. Some agencies permit inquiry without immediate arrest for certain low-level warrants, but this is not guaranteed.
Wood County Sheriff's Office One Courthouse Square Bowling Green, OH 43402 Phone: (419) 354-9001 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Wood County Sheriff's Office
4. Contact the Court
The Wood County Clerk of Courts maintains case records that include bench warrant status. Court staff can confirm whether a bench warrant has been issued in a specific case. Confirmation of a warrant through the Clerk's Office does not initiate an arrest, but the warrant remains active and enforceable until resolved.
Wood County Clerk of Courts One Courthouse Square, Suite 200 Bowling Green, OH 43402 Phone: (419) 354-9280 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Wood County Clerk of Courts
5. Hire an Attorney
Retaining legal counsel is the safest method for determining whether a warrant exists. Communications between an attorney and client are protected by attorney-client privilege. An attorney may check warrant status, explain the nature of any charges, and arrange a voluntary surrender if a warrant is confirmed. The Ohio State Bar Association provides a lawyer referral service for individuals seeking legal representation.
6. Third-Party Background Check Services
Commercial background check services may display warrant information; however, the accuracy and currency of such data varies. These services charge fees for information that is available at no cost through official government sources. Members of the public are encouraged to consult official county and state resources before relying on third-party services.
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 Wood 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 warrants upon confirmation. Individuals who suspect a warrant may exist are strongly advised 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, including failure to appear. A routine traffic stop can result in arrest on an outstanding warrant. Proactive resolution is always preferable to a surprise encounter with law enforcement.
What NOT to Do:
- Do not ignore a possible warrant
- Do not attempt to flee or conceal oneself from law enforcement
- Do not provide false information to law enforcement officers
- Do not resist if placed under arrest
- Do not assume a warrant will expire or be dismissed without action
What Is a Search Warrant in Wood 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 United States Constitution, all searches and seizures must be reasonable, and warrants may only be issued upon a showing of probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation, and must particularly describe the place to be searched and the items to be seized.
Purpose of Search Warrants:
- Protect the privacy rights of individuals against unreasonable government intrusion
- Prevent law enforcement from conducting arbitrary or suspicionless searches
- Balance the legitimate needs of criminal investigations with individual constitutional rights
- Ensure judicial oversight of police actions prior to any search
- Provide a documented basis for the collection of evidence in criminal proceedings
Constitutional Basis:
The Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution establishes the foundational requirement for search warrants at the federal level. The Ohio Constitution, Article I, Section 14 provides parallel protections under state law, prohibiting unreasonable searches and seizures and requiring that warrants be supported by probable cause and describe with particularity the place to be searched and the property to be seized.
Legal Requirements:
Under Ohio Revised Code § 2933.23, a search warrant may be issued only upon probable cause, supported by affidavit naming or describing the person and particularly describing the place to be searched and the property to be seized. The affidavit must be sworn before a judge or magistrate, who independently reviews the facts presented before authorizing the warrant. The warrant must be executed within the time period specified by the issuing court.
When Search Warrants Are Used:
- Drug offense investigations
- Theft and property crime cases
- White collar and financial crime investigations
- Evidence collection in violent crime cases
- Seizure of digital evidence, including computers and mobile devices
- Recovery of contraband or stolen property
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 Wood County?
Warrants are subject to Ohio's public records law and are accessible to members of the public in most circumstances, particularly after execution. The Ohio Public Records Act, Ohio Revised Code § 149.43, establishes the right of the public to inspect and obtain copies of government records, including court records and law enforcement documents, subject to specific statutory exemptions.
When Warrants Become Public:
Search warrants are treated as confidential prior to execution in order to protect the integrity of ongoing investigations, prevent the destruction of evidence, and preserve the element of surprise. 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.
Active arrest warrants are accessible to the public through the Sheriff's Office warrant search system. The subject's name, charges, bond amount, and issuing court are visible in the database. After an arrest is made, the warrant becomes part of the permanent court case file.
Exceptions and Sealed Warrants:
Certain warrants may remain sealed by court order. Circumstances that may result in sealing include:
- Ongoing criminal investigations where disclosure would compromise the case
- Grand jury proceedings
- Cases involving confidential informants or sensitive investigative techniques
- National security matters
- Juvenile proceedings
- Witness protection considerations
The duration of sealing is determined by the issuing judge and may extend for months or years. Most warrants eventually become part of the public record, though specific portions may be permanently redacted to protect confidential sources or methods.
What's Publicly Available:
- Active arrest warrant records searchable online
- Executed search warrant documents filed with the court
- Probable cause affidavits (after execution)
- Inventory of items seized pursuant to a search warrant
- Court case files containing warrant information
What's Restricted:
- Unexecuted search warrants under active investigation
- Sealed warrants by court order
- Confidential informant identities
- Certain law enforcement investigative techniques
- Grand jury materials
How Much Does It Cost to Get Warrant Records in Wood County?
The Wood County Clerk of Courts charges standard fees for copies of public records, consistent with the fee schedule established under Ohio Revised Code § 149.43. Members of the public may inspect records at no charge during regular business hours. The following fee structure applies to copies and certified documents:
| Record Type | Standard Fee |
|---|---|
| Paper copies (black and white) | $0.05 per page (standard) |
| Certified copies | $1.00 per document plus copy fees |
| Electronic records | Varies; may be provided at no cost |
| Search fee | No charge for public record inspection |
Fees may vary depending on the type of record requested and the office from which the records are obtained. The Sheriff's Office online warrant search is available at no cost to the public. Court case records accessible through the Ohio Courts online portal are also free to search. Certification fees apply when a document bearing the official court seal is required for legal proceedings.
Payment methods accepted at the Clerk of Courts include cash, check, and money order. Members of the public seeking fee waivers based on indigency or other circumstances should inquire directly with the Clerk's Office, as provisions may apply on a case-by-case basis.
Online access to case records through the Ohio Supreme Court's case information system is provided at no cost and does not require registration.
What Types of Warrants Exist in Wood County
1. Arrest Warrants
An arrest warrant is a court order authorizing law enforcement to take a specific individual into custody. It is issued by a judge or magistrate upon a finding of probable cause that the named individual has committed a criminal offense. Arrest warrants remain active until the subject is arrested or the warrant is recalled by the court.
Arrest warrants are issued in circumstances including felony charges filed by a prosecutor, indictment by a grand jury, serious misdemeanor charges where the suspect is not in custody, or when a suspect presents a flight risk. The warrant contains the subject's name and description, the specific charges and statute violations, the bond amount, and the name of the issuing court and judge.
Upon execution, the subject is taken into custody, booked and processed at the county jail, and scheduled for a first appearance hearing before the court.
2. Bench Warrants
A bench warrant is issued directly by a judge from the bench, most commonly for failure to comply with a court order. The most frequent basis for a bench warrant is failure to appear at a scheduled court date. Additional grounds include failure to pay court-ordered fines, violation of probation or community control terms, contempt of court, and failure to complete court-ordered programs or community service.
Bench warrants differ from arrest warrants in that they arise from court-related violations rather than new criminal conduct. Bond amounts associated with bench warrants are often lower than those for arrest warrants, and in some cases the warrant may be recalled if the underlying issue is resolved promptly. Members of the public with bench warrants may contact the Wood County Clerk of Courts at (419) 354-9280 to inquire about options for resolution.
3. Search Warrants
A search warrant authorizes law enforcement to enter and search a specific location and to seize designated items. As required by Ohio Revised Code § 2933.23, the warrant must describe with particularity the place to be searched and the property to be seized, and must be supported by a sworn affidavit establishing probable cause. Search warrants are typically required to be executed within a specified number of days from issuance.
Locations subject to search warrants may include residences, vehicles, businesses, storage units, electronic devices, and financial records. Items that may be seized include contraband, stolen property, weapons, documents, digital evidence, and illegal substances.
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. Issuance requires a higher evidentiary standard and is reserved for circumstances where prior announcement would create a risk of evidence destruction, endanger officers, or involve a violent or armed suspect. Ohio law imposes additional judicial oversight and documentation requirements for no-knock warrants, and their use is subject to ongoing legislative scrutiny.
5. Governor's Warrants (Extradition)
A governor's warrant is issued in the context of interstate extradition. When an individual wanted in another state is located in Ohio, the requesting state submits an extradition request to the Ohio Governor's office. Upon issuance of a governor's warrant, the individual may be arrested and held pending transfer to the requesting state. The subject retains the right to challenge extradition through a habeas corpus proceeding or may waive extradition and consent to transfer.
6. Capias Warrants
A capias warrant is issued in civil or quasi-criminal proceedings, most commonly for failure to comply with a court order in matters such as child support enforcement or civil contempt. Although arising from civil proceedings, a capias warrant can result in arrest. Release is typically conditioned upon payment of 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 comply with a subpoena. This type of warrant is relatively uncommon and is used when a witness's testimony is essential to a proceeding and the witness is evading service or has refused to appear voluntarily.
Traffic Warrants:
Failure to appear on a traffic citation or failure to pay traffic fines may result in the issuance of a warrant. Traffic warrants are associated with lower bond amounts and can often be resolved quickly through the appropriate traffic court. An outstanding traffic warrant may result in arrest during a subsequent traffic stop.
Probation and Parole Violation Warrants:
When an individual violates the terms of probation or parole supervision, a warrant may be issued by the supervising officer or the court. These warrants frequently carry no bond or a high bond amount and require a hearing before a judge. A finding of violation may result in incarceration.
Federal Warrants:
Federal warrants are issued by federal judges or magistrate judges in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Ohio, which has jurisdiction over Wood County. Federal warrants are enforced by federal agencies including the FBI, DEA, ATF, and U.S. Marshals Service. Federal warrants are maintained in separate databases from county warrant systems and are not reflected in local warrant searches.
U.S. District Court, Northern District of Ohio 1716 Spielbusch Avenue Toledo, OH 43604 Phone: (419) 213-5500 U.S. District Court, Northern District of Ohio
What Warrants in Wood County Contain
Standard Information in All Warrants:
All warrants issued in Wood County contain a standard set of identifying and legal information. The header section includes the name and seal of the issuing court, the case number, the court division, the name of the issuing judge, the warrant number, and the date of issuance. The body of the warrant identifies the subject by full legal name, any known aliases, date of birth, physical description (including height, weight, race, eye color, hair color, and identifying marks such as scars or tattoos), last known address, and, in some cases, driver's license number.
The legal authority section cites the applicable statute, directs the warrant to any law enforcement officer in the State of Ohio, and sets forth the court's command to arrest the named individual or to search the described location.
Specific to Arrest Warrants:
The charges section of an arrest warrant identifies the specific criminal offense or offenses, the statute number violated, a brief description of the alleged conduct, the degree of the offense (felony class or misdemeanor level), the number of counts, and the date of the alleged offense. A probable cause statement summarizes the facts supporting the arrest, referencing the underlying affidavit or criminal complaint. The bond section specifies the bond amount, the type of bond authorized (cash, surety, personal recognizance, or no bond), and any conditions of release. Execution instructions direct law enforcement on how to carry out the warrant and may note special cautions such as whether the subject is considered armed or a flight risk.
Specific to Search Warrants:
Search warrants contain a detailed description of the premises to be searched, including the complete address, physical description of the structure, unit or apartment number, distinguishing features, and cross streets. The items to be seized are described with specificity, including categories such as contraband, stolen property, evidence of crimes, digital devices, financial records, and documents. The probable cause affidavit attached to the warrant provides a detailed account of the officer's investigation, including surveillance results, informant information (which may be redacted), prior law enforcement contacts, and the nexus between the location and the alleged criminal activity. Time limitations specify the date of issuance, the expiration date, and any restrictions on the time of day during which the warrant may be executed. The return section requires the executing officer to file an inventory of seized items with the court upon completion of the search.
Specific to Bench Warrants:
Bench warrants identify the court order that was violated, the original case number and charges, the court date that was missed or the obligation that was not fulfilled, and the bond amount. Resolution information may include the amount required to purge the warrant and the conditions for release.
Warrant Endorsements and Attachments:
All warrants bear the original or electronic signature of the issuing judge and the court seal. Supporting documents attached to warrants may include the affidavit of probable cause, the criminal complaint, photographs or diagrams, and, in some cases, expert opinions or laboratory reports. Confidential portions, including informant identities and sensitive investigative techniques, may be sealed or redacted from the public record.
Who Issues Warrants in Wood County
Warrants in Wood County are issued exclusively by members of the judiciary. The Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution requires that warrants be issued by a neutral and detached magistrate, ensuring that the decision to authorize a search or arrest is made independently of the law enforcement officers seeking the warrant. Law enforcement officers and prosecutors do not have authority to issue warrants on their own initiative.
Under Ohio Revised Code § 2933.21, search warrants may be issued by a judge of a court of record. The following judicial officers have authority to issue warrants in Wood County:
Wood County Court of Common Pleas One Courthouse Square Bowling Green, OH 43402 Phone: (419) 354-9280 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Wood County Court of Common Pleas
Judges of the Court of Common Pleas hold full authority to issue all types of warrants, including felony arrest warrants, search warrants, and bench warrants in cases pending before the court.
Wood County Municipal Court 1616 East Wooster Street Bowling Green, OH 43402 Phone: (419) 354-9270 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Wood County Municipal Court
Municipal Court judges issue warrants in misdemeanor cases, traffic matters, and cases arising under municipal ordinances. Bench warrants for failure to appear in Municipal Court proceedings are issued by Municipal Court judges.
Magistrates:
Magistrates appointed by the Court of Common Pleas and Municipal Court have authority to issue initial arrest warrants, search warrants, and bench warrants, and to set bond amounts. Magistrates are available after regular court hours for urgent warrant matters, including search warrants that cannot be delayed until the next business day.
Who Requests Warrants:
Law enforcement officers from the Wood County Sheriff's Office, the Bowling Green Police Division, and other municipal police departments within the county present sworn affidavits to the court to request warrants. Investigators and detectives prepare detailed probable cause affidavits documenting the facts of their investigations. Prosecutors from the Wood County Prosecutor's Office review investigations, determine charges, and may present warrant requests to the court.
Wood County Prosecutor's Office One Courthouse Square, Suite 301 Bowling Green, OH 43402 Phone: (419) 354-9250 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Wood County Prosecutor's Office
Bowling Green Police Division 304 North Church Street Bowling Green, OH 43402 Phone: (419) 352-1131 Bowling Green Police Division
The Warrant Issuance Process:
- Law enforcement gathers evidence and establishes probable cause through investigation, witness interviews, and physical evidence collection.
- The officer prepares a sworn affidavit detailing the facts supporting probable cause and citing the specific statutory violations.
- The affidavit is presented to a judge or magistrate, either in person or through an electronic warrant system.
- The judge independently reviews the affidavit, assesses whether probable cause exists, and ensures that constitutional and statutory requirements are satisfied.
- If the judge finds probable cause, the warrant is signed and becomes effective immediately. If denied, the officer may supplement the affidavit or decline to proceed.
- The signed warrant is entered into law enforcement databases, including the National Crime Information Center (NCIC), and is available for execution by any law enforcement officer in the state.
Electronic Warrants:
Ohio law permits the use of electronic warrants in certain circumstances, allowing officers to submit affidavits and receive signed warrants through secure digital systems. Electronic warrants carry the same legal authority as paper warrants.
Grand Jury:
In felony cases, a grand jury convened in the Wood County Court of Common Pleas may issue an indictment upon a finding of probable cause. An indictment functions as a charging instrument and results in the issuance of an arrest warrant for the named defendant.
How To Find Outstanding Warrants in Wood 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, including during routine traffic stops, at the subject's home or workplace, or at any other location.
Methods to Find Outstanding Warrants:
1. Online Warrant Database
The Wood County Sheriff's Office maintains a publicly accessible warrant search system on its official website. Members of the public may search by last name, first name, and date of birth at no cost. Results display the subject's name and date of birth, warrant type, charges, bond amount, issue date, and case number. The database reflects active warrants and is updated on a regular basis, though very recently issued warrants may not appear immediately due to processing time.
The Wood County Clerk of Courts online case search allows members of the public to search case records by party name and review case status, including whether a bench warrant has been issued in a pending matter.
2. County Most Wanted
The Wood County Sheriff's Office publishes information regarding high-priority fugitives and individuals with outstanding warrants for serious offenses on its official website. This list is not comprehensive and reflects only cases in which law enforcement is actively seeking the subject.
3. Direct Contact with Law Enforcement
Wood County Sheriff's Office — Warrants Division One Courthouse Square Bowling Green, OH 43402 Phone: (419) 354-9001 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Wood County Sheriff's Office
Members of the public may contact the Sheriff's Office by telephone to inquire about warrant status. Staff can check the database by name and date of birth. Individuals appearing in person should be aware of the risk of immediate arrest if a warrant is confirmed.
4. Through the Clerk of Courts
Wood County Clerk of Courts One Courthouse Square, Suite 200 Bowling Green, OH 43402 Phone: (419) 354-9280 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Wood County Clerk of Courts
The Clerk's Office maintains public access terminals where members of the public may search case records. Staff can assist with locating case files that reflect bench warrant status. The Clerk's Office does not initiate arrests, but any warrant confirmed through this inquiry remains active and enforceable.
5. Statewide Resources
The Ohio Supreme Court's online case information system provides access to case records across multiple Ohio courts and may reflect warrant status in cases filed in other counties. Coverage varies by court, and not all local courts participate in the statewide portal.
6. Through an Attorney
Retaining an attorney is the safest method for determining whether an outstanding warrant exists. The Ohio State Bar Association's lawyer referral service can assist individuals in locating qualified legal counsel. An attorney may verify warrant status, explain the nature of any charges, and arrange a voluntary surrender under conditions that protect the client's rights and minimize disruption.
Search Multiple Jurisdictions:
Individuals who have lived or worked in multiple locations should check warrant databases in each relevant county and municipality, as warrants may be issued by different courts and maintained in separate databases. Traffic court warrants, criminal court warrants, and probation-related warrants may appear in different systems.
Interpreting Search Results:
If a warrant is found, the individual should record all relevant details — including the warrant number, charges, bond amount, issuing court, and issue date — and consult an attorney before taking any further action. If no warrant is found, individuals seeking certainty may wish to verify results through multiple official sources, as recently issued warrants may not yet appear in online databases.
Limitations of Online Searches:
Online warrant databases reflect information that has been entered into the system at the time of the search. Warrants issued within the preceding hours or days may not yet appear. Sealed warrants are not visible in public databases. Federal warrants are maintained in separate federal systems and are not reflected in county-level searches.
How Long Do Warrants Last In Wood County?
Under Ohio law, arrest warrants and bench warrants do not expire. Once issued by a court, a warrant remains active and enforceable until it is executed — meaning the subject is arrested — or until the issuing court recalls or quashes the warrant. There is no statutory time limit on the enforceability of an arrest or bench warrant in Ohio. A warrant issued years or even decades ago remains valid and may be executed at any time the subject is located by law enforcement.
Search warrants are subject to a different standard. Under Ohio Revised Code § 2933.24, a search warrant must be executed within three days of issuance, excluding the day of issuance and the day of execution. If a search warrant is not executed within this period, it becomes void and law enforcement must obtain a new warrant before conducting the search.
Individuals with outstanding arrest or bench warrants are advised to address the matter proactively, as the passage of time does not diminish the warrant's legal effect and may result in additional charges, including failure to appear.
How Long Does It Take To Get a Search Warrant In Wood County?
The time required to obtain a search warrant in Wood County depends on the complexity of the investigation, the availability of the reviewing judge or magistrate, and whether the matter is handled during regular court hours or on an emergency basis.
In straightforward cases where probable cause is well-documented, an officer may present a completed affidavit to a judge and receive a signed warrant within a matter of hours. More complex investigations involving extensive surveillance, multiple locations, or digital evidence may require additional time to prepare a legally sufficient affidavit, potentially extending the process to several days.
After-hours and emergency search warrants may be obtained by contacting an on-call magistrate or judge. Ohio law permits telephonic and electronic warrant applications in urgent circumstances, allowing officers to present probable cause and receive authorization without appearing in person before the court. Once the judge is satisfied that probable cause exists and all constitutional requirements are met, the warrant may be signed and transmitted electronically, enabling execution to proceed without delay.
Upon issuance, a search warrant must be executed within three days under Ohio Revised Code § 2933.24. Law enforcement agencies therefore coordinate the timing of warrant applications to ensure that sufficient personnel and resources are available to execute the warrant promptly after it is signed.