What is defined as a written order from a magistrate commanding a peace officer to take a person accused of an offense?

A written order from a magistrate commanding a peace officer to take a person accused of an offense is known as a warrant of arrest. This legal document is crucial in the criminal justice system as it authorizes law enforcement to apprehend an individual who is alleged to have committed a crime.

The warrant includes specific details such as the identity of the accused, the nature of the offense, and the authority under which it was issued. By requiring a warrant, the law aims to protect individuals from wrongful arrests, ensuring that law enforcement has judicial approval before taking such action.

Other terms listed in the choices refer to different legal functions. A citation is generally a notice issued by law enforcement to a person to appear in court for a minor offense, typically for infractions that do not warrant arrest. A subpoena is a formal request for an individual to appear in court or produce evidence, usually related to a civil case or certain criminal proceedings, but it does not involve taking someone into custody. A summons, on the other hand, is a document issued to notify a defendant to appear in court to answer a complaint or charge but does not involve the immediate arrest. The distinction between a warrant of arrest and these other legal documents is important in understanding the procedural rules governing criminal