Warrants & Arrests – Everything about warrants and arrests
What is a warrant?
A legal document issued by a judge allowing law enforcement to perform a specific action, like an arrest or search.
What is civil law?
Law that deals with disputes between individuals or organizations, usually involving compensation.
What is the Fourth Amendment?
Protects against unreasonable searches and seizures.
What is search and seizure?
The act of law enforcement searching a person’s property and confiscating evidence legally.
What is probable cause?
Reasonable belief, based on facts, that a person has committed a crime.
What information must go on a warrant?
Name of suspect, offense, place to be searched, judge’s signature, date.
What is criminal law?
Law that defines crimes and punishments for breaking them.
What is the Fifth Amendment?
Protects against self-incrimination and double jeopardy.
What is contraband?
Illegal or prohibited items, such as drugs or weapons.
What is beyond a reasonable doubt?
The level of certainty required for a conviction in a criminal trial.
Is a warrant always needed for an arrest?
No (exceptions exist, like probable cause or exigent circumstances).
What is the penal code?
A set of laws defining crimes and the punishments for them.
What is the Sixth Amendment?
Guarantees the right to a speedy trial, impartial jury, and legal counsel.
What is frisking?
A limited pat-down of a person to check for weapons.
What is self-incrimination?
Giving testimony or evidence that could be used to convict oneself.
How long do warrants usually last?
Typically until served, but can vary by jurisdiction.
What is a tort?
A civil wrong that causes harm or injury to another person, which can result in a lawsuit.
What is the Eighth Amendment?
Protects against cruel and unusual punishment and excessive bail.
What is mere suspicion?
A general feeling that someone may be involved in wrongdoing; not enough for legal action.
What is an arrest?
Taking someone into custody because they are suspected of committing a crime.
Can someone be arrested without a warrant?
Yes, if there is probable cause or if a crime is committed in the officer’s presence.
Difference between civil law and criminal law?
Civil law deals with disputes; criminal law deals with crimes against society.
What are the Bill of Rights?
The first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution that protect individual freedoms.
What is reasonable suspicion?
A belief based on facts that a crime may be occurring, enough to stop and question someone.
Difference between reasonable suspicion and probable cause?
Reasonable suspicion allows brief stops or questioning; probable cause is needed for arrest or search warrants.