What is an arrest warrant, and who can issue one?

An arrest warrant is a legal document that authorizes law enforcement officers to arrest a specific individual. This document is typically issued by a magistrate or judge and is based on a sworn statement or affidavit demonstrating probable cause that the individual has committed a crime. The presence of a warrant is a crucial aspect of the legal process, as it protects individuals' rights by ensuring that law enforcement has sufficient justification to detain someone. This process helps maintain the balance between law enforcement duties and individual liberties.

The other choices do not accurately define an arrest warrant. A notice for a traffic violation pertains to minor offenses and does not involve arrest authority. A report generated by police typically summarizes details of a crime but does not provide legal authority for an arrest. An agreement between a prosecutor and a defense lawyer relates to negotiation processes in legal cases but is not a tool for law enforcement action like an arrest warrant.