What is an arrest warrant?

An arrest warrant is a legal document issued by a judge or magistrate that authorizes law enforcement officers to detain a specific individual. This warrant serves as a crucial legal instrument, ensuring that an individual's arrest is conducted in accordance with the law and protects the individual's rights by requiring the judicial system's approval before an arrest can be made. It typically includes information such as the name of the person to be arrested, the charges against them, and details that establish probable cause for the arrest. This process upholds the principle of due process, which is integral to the criminal justice system.

The other options outline documents or notices that serve different purposes in law enforcement or legal contexts, but they do not relate to the formal process of authorizing an arrest. Therefore, recognizing the function and significance of an arrest warrant is key to understanding law enforcement operations and judicial oversight.