Warrant Definition and Legal Meaning
On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Warrant, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.
What is Warrant?
(n) Warrant is the written document issued by a court or legally authorized person authorizing a law executive authority to stop or retain a person by arresting his movements or to enter into the premises of a person with an intention to arrest the person or collect evidences from there. A warrant is issued when the authority apprehend that the concerned person may resist the movement without such warrant
History and Meaning of Warrant
Warrant is a legal document issued by a court or magistrate or other legal authority that permits someone to do something specific. Warrants can be used in a variety of contexts, including but not limited to, search or arrest warrants. The purpose of a warrant is to protect individuals from arbitrary actions by law enforcement officials by requiring that specific legal procedures be followed before a particular action is taken.
The history of warrants can be traced back to medieval England, where they were used to ensure that law enforcement officials had proper authorization before taking certain actions. Today, warrants are an essential component of the criminal justice system in many countries as they facilitate the proper functioning of law enforcement officials while simultaneously ensuring that individual rights are protected.
Examples of Warrant
- Arrest Warrant: A legal document issued by a court or authorized officer that enables law enforcement officials to arrest an individual suspected of committing a crime.
- Search Warrant: A legal document issued by a court or authorized officer that allows law enforcement officials to search a designated location for evidence.
- Bench Warrant: A legal document issued by a court that directs law enforcement officials to arrest an individual who fails to appear in court as required.
- Execution Warrant: A legal document issued by a court that authorizes the execution of a sentence of death or imprisonment.
Legal Terms Similar to Warrant
- Subpoena: Similar to a warrant, a document issued by a court that compels a person to produce evidence or appear in court.
- Summons: A document issued by a court that requires an individual to appear in court or answer a complaint.
- Indictment: A formal accusation issued by a grand jury that charges an individual with committing a crime based on evidence presented to them by the prosecutor.