This guide outlines the required elements for each warrant type and provides deputies with a quick checklist prior to submission. All warrants must be supported by probable cause, clearly articulated facts, and lawful evidence.

ARREST WARRANT

Purpose:
Authorizes the arrest of a named individual for specific criminal offenses.

Required Elements:
• Full suspect name
• Probable cause linking suspect to the offense
• List of charges with full statute titles
• Case or incident number
• Supporting evidence (statements, reports, video, etc.)
• Requesting officer’s name, badge number, and contact info

Common Use:
• Suspect not in custody
• Follow-up investigations
• Felony or warrantable misdemeanor charges

SEARCH WARRANT

Purpose:
Authorizes the search of a specific location, vehicle, or item for evidence.

Required Elements:
• Exact location or item to be searched
• Clear description of items sought
• Probable cause connecting evidence to location
• Nexus explanation (why evidence is there)
• Time relevance (why now)

Important Notes:
• Scope is strictly limited to what is listed
• Anything seized outside scope must be justified separately

SEIZURE WARRANT

Purpose:
Authorizes seizure of specific property, vehicles, money, or assets.

Required Elements:
• Detailed description of property
• Legal basis for seizure
• Probable cause property is evidence, contraband, or proceeds
• Connection to criminal offense

Common Use:
• Narcotics cases
• Marked bills
• Weapons
• Vehicles tied to felony offenses

OTHER / SPECIAL WARRANTS

Examples:
• Tracking warrants
• Electronic data warrants
• Asset forfeiture warrants

Required Elements:
• Statutory authority
• Probable cause
• Clear scope and limitations

Supervisor and judicial consultation recommended.

PROBABLE CAUSE STANDARD (ALL WARRANTS)

Probable cause must be:
• Fact-based
• Chronological
• Clearly articulated
• Supported by evidence

Avoid assumptions, vague language, or unsupported conclusions.

COMMON WARRANT ERRORS TO AVOID

• Missing nexus between crime and location
• Overly broad search language
• Failure to list evidence
• Incomplete suspect identifiers
• Poor articulation of timeline

If it’s unclear → it won’t be approved.

BEFORE SUBMITTING – QUICK CHECK

• Do I have probable cause?
• Is the scope clearly defined?
• Is the evidence listed?
• Is the template complete and accurate?
• Would a judge understand this without explanation?

INTERNAL USE NOTICE
For LSCSO operational reference only. This guide supplements SOPs and judicial procedure.