A search warrant is an order in writing signed by a magistrate commanding a peace officer to search for personal property and bring it to the magistrate. Which of the following is the correct description of a search warrant?

• A. Arrest a suspect
• B. Issue a subpoena
• C. Search for personal property and bring it to the magistrate
• D. Confiscate all property on scene

Answer: (C)

A search warrant is a written court order, signed by a magistrate, that authorizes a peace officer to search a specific location for particular items and seize those items for presentation in court. The emphasis is on locating and bringing the described property before the court, not on arresting someone or broadly confiscating everything on the scene. This matches the description given: to search for personal property and bring it to the magistrate. It isn’t an arrest warrant, it isn’t a subpoena, and seizures must be limited to the items described in the warrant rather than confiscating all property on scene.