What is an arrest warrant?

An arrest warrant is a legal document issued by a judge or magistrate that authorizes law enforcement to arrest a specific individual. The issuance of an arrest warrant is based on probable cause, which means that there is reasonable belief that the person has committed a crime. This document is essential because it provides law enforcement with the legal authority to detain the individual named in the warrant, ensuring that the arrest complies with due process rights.

Understanding the nature of an arrest warrant is important for maintaining the integrity of the legal system and upholding individual rights. It is distinct from other legal documents; for instance, a notice of traffic violation pertains to minor offenses and does not authorize an arrest. Similarly, a notification to attend court serves to inform a person of a court date but does not imply any criminal charges warranting arrest. A request for bail relates to the post-arrest phase, where a defendant seeks to be released from custody under certain conditions, rather than the actual act of arrest itself.