What is an arrest warrant?

An arrest warrant serves as a legal document that grants law enforcement the authority to arrest a particular individual. It is typically issued by a judge or magistrate based on a finding of probable cause, meaning there is sufficient evidence to believe that the person has committed a crime. The warrant ensures that the arrest is conducted lawfully and protects the rights of the individual being arrested, as it is a formalized procedure that requires judicial oversight.

In contrast, a record of previous arrests is simply a compilation of an individual's prior encounters with law enforcement and does not confer any legal authority for current actions. A police report of a crime is an account of an incident that has been documented by officers, detailing facts and circumstances but lacking any arrest authority. A notice to appear in court informs a person of the need to attend a court proceeding but does not equate to an arrest warrant. Therefore, the definition of an arrest warrant as a legal document that authorizes an arrest is the most accurate and relevant understanding of the term.