Which statement about arrest warrants is correct?

Which statement about arrest warrants is correct?

• A. Clerks routinely issue warrants
• B. Prosecutors issue warrants without court approval
• C. Clerks may not issue arrest warrants
• D. Judges issue warrants only in capital cases

Answer: (C)

Arrest warrants come from judicial authority, not from clerks or prosecutors alone. A judge or magistrate reviews a sworn statement showing probable cause and, if it meets the threshold, signs the warrant. Clerks handle the paperwork and records, but they do not grant the arrest; they carry out administrative duties after the judge’s signature. Prosecutors can prepare and present the warrant application, but they cannot issue the warrant without judicial approval. Warrants are issued for many offenses, not just capital cases.

Arrest warrants come from judicial authority, not from clerks or prosecutors alone. A judge or magistrate reviews a sworn statement showing probable cause and, if it meets the threshold, signs the warrant. Clerks handle the paperwork and records, but they do not grant the arrest; they carry out administrative duties after the judge’s signature. Prosecutors can prepare and present the warrant application, but they cannot issue the warrant without judicial approval. Warrants are issued for many offenses, not just capital cases.