What is an arrest warrant?

An arrest warrant is a formal, written order issued by a magistrate or judge that authorizes law enforcement officers to arrest a specific individual. This document is issued based on evidence or probable cause that the individual has committed a crime. The warrant serves as a critical legal instrument that protects individuals' rights by ensuring that arrests are made based on judicial oversight rather than solely on the discretion of law enforcement.

It is important for an arrest warrant to be in writing to provide a clear, accountable, and traceable directive which confirms the existence of probable cause and the authority granted to the officers conducting the arrest. This written order also includes specific details such as the name of the individual to be arrested, the charges against them, and other pertinent information necessary for carrying out the law.

While other options provide aspects related to law enforcement, they do not define an arrest warrant accurately. For instance, a verbal command from a police chief does not hold the same legal weight as a warrant and lacks the necessary judicial endorsement, while a public notice simply informs the public of an arrest rather than authorizing one. A document that permits officers to search private property refers to a search warrant, which serves a different legal purpose than that of an arrest warrant.