What is the primary purpose of an arrest warrant?

The primary purpose of an arrest warrant is to authorize the arrest of an individual suspected of a crime. This legal document is issued by a judge or magistrate and provides law enforcement with the requisite authority to detain an individual based on probable cause that they have committed a crime. The warrant ensures that the individual's rights are protected by requiring judicial oversight before an arrest can occur.

The existence of an arrest warrant signifies that there has been sufficient evidence or information presented to a judge to justify the belief that a specific person is connected to a criminal offense. This process helps maintain the balance between law enforcement's need to apprehend suspects and the individual's rights against unwarranted detention. In essence, it plays a critical role in the justice system by requiring a legal standard to be met before taking someone into custody.