Who signs an arrest warrant?

• A. Sheriff
• B. Prosecutor
• C. Police officer in charge
• D. Magistrate or judge

Answer: (D)

An arrest warrant is a court order authorizing law enforcement to arrest a named person, and the person who signs it is a magistrate or judge after reviewing a sworn statement showing probable cause. The judge or magistrate signs to authorize the arrest, providing neutral, judicial oversight to protect the accused’s rights. The prosecutor or police officers may prepare and petition for the warrant, but they do not sign the warrant themselves. The sheriff or police officer in charge may carry out the arrest and enforce the order, but the authority to issue and sign the warrant comes from the judicial officer.