Louisiana Bail Bonds Practice Exam

What must be present in a warrant of arrest?

1. List of witnesses

2. Signature of the defendant

3. Command to arrest the accused

4. Legal fees associated with arrest

The correct answer is: Command to arrest the accused

A warrant of arrest is a legal document issued by a judge or magistrate that authorizes law enforcement to take a specific individual into custody. The essential component of such a warrant is the command to arrest the accused, which clearly instructs law enforcement to carry out the arrest based on probable cause. This command signifies the judicial backing of the arrest and gives law enforcement the authority to detain the individual. Other elements may be included in an arrest warrant, such as the name of the accused and the charges against them, but the critical requirement is the explicit command for the arrest. Having a command ensures that the arrest is legally justified and protects the rights of the accused. While a list of witnesses, a signature of the defendant, or legal fees may be relevant in different legal contexts, they are not fundamental requirements for the validity of an arrest warrant. The focus of a warrant is primarily on the authorization to arrest, which is clearly encapsulated in the command.