What is the purpose of an arrest warrant?

The purpose of an arrest warrant is to provide legal authorization for law enforcement to detain an individual who is named in the warrant. This issued document is based on a determination of probable cause by a judge or magistrate, indicating that there is enough evidence to believe that the person has committed a crime. When a warrant is issued, it grants police officers the authority to apprehend the individual, thus ensuring that the legal process can proceed in a manner consistent with the rules of justice.

An arrest warrant is a critical instrument in the criminal justice system, as it protects the rights of individuals by requiring judicial oversight before detainment occurs. This legal safeguard prevents arbitrary arrests and aligns law enforcement actions with constitutional protections against unlawful seizure.

Other options might relate to specific legal processes or documentation within law enforcement or the judicial system, but they do not encapsulate the fundamental role of an arrest warrant in authorizing the taking into custody of an individual based on a legal determination.