What legal document allows law enforcement to conduct a search?

The legal document that allows law enforcement to conduct a search is typically a search warrant rather than an affidavit. An affidavit is a sworn statement of facts that can be used to support a request for a search warrant, but it does not authorize the search itself.

A search warrant, which is what this question implies, is issued by a judge or magistrate and specifically grants law enforcement the authority to search a particular location and seize specific items related to a criminal investigation. The issuance of a search warrant usually requires law enforcement to demonstrate probable cause, supported by the facts outlined in the accompanying affidavit.

Other options, such as an indictment, are related to the charging of individuals in criminal court, while an arrest warrant is focused solely on authorizing the arrest of an individual. A summons typically requires a person to appear in court but does not grant law enforcement the authority to conduct a search. Hence, identifying the correct legal document as a search warrant is crucial for understanding the legal processes surrounding law enforcement searches.