What is a “Search Warrant”?

A search warrant is a legal document issued by a judge or magistrate that grants law enforcement the authority to conduct a search of a specific location for evidence related to a crime. This document is essential in law enforcement procedures because it helps protect individuals' Fourth Amendment rights against unreasonable searches and seizures.

The requirement of a search warrant ensures that law enforcement has a legal basis for their actions based on probable cause, meaning there must be reasonable grounds to believe that evidence of a crime will be found in the specified location. The warrant must detail the location to be searched and the items being sought, which further reinforces the principle of specificity and limitation in searches, thus safeguarding citizens' rights and upholding due process.

The other choices do not represent the correct definition of a search warrant: a verbal agreement lacks the legal authority and formal nature of a search warrant; a summary of criminal charges does not pertain to the authorization of searches; and a citation issued during a traffic stop relates to traffic laws, not searches for evidence.