California POST Training Practice Test

What essential information must be included in an arrest warrant?

1. Name of the arresting officer

2. Time the warrant is issued

3. Location of the arrest

4. A list of potential witnesses

The correct answer is: Time the warrant is issued

The inclusion of the time the warrant is issued is critical because it establishes the timeframe within which the warrant is valid. This information is important for both the enforcement of the warrant and for legal purposes, as it can affect various aspects of the judicial process. For instance, the timing might be relevant in determining the validity of the arrest or the ability to challenge the warrant in court. It also ensures that there is a clear record of when law enforcement obtained the authority to make an arrest, which is essential in maintaining accountability and transparency within the legal system. The other choices, while they may relate to the context of an arrest, do not constitute essential elements required for the issuance of an arrest warrant. For instance, the name of the arresting officer may not be necessary for the warrant itself, as the warrant is specific to the individual to be arrested rather than the officer. The location of the arrest, while related to the execution of the warrant, doesn't need to be specified within the warrant document itself. Lastly, although potential witnesses might be relevant in a broader investigative context, they are not a required component of the arrest warrant itself.