Search warrants are written orders in the name of “the State of Arizona,” signed by a magistrate (judge or judicial officer) upon a finding a probable cause, authorizing the police to search for personal property, persons, or items. A.R.S. §§ 13-3911 to 13-3925. If a judge agrees that probable cause for the warrant exists, a search warrant can be issued to command a search by any police officer of the person or place specified, for the items described in the warrant. A.R.S. § 13-3915. A search warrant is different from an arrest warrant. However, if evidence of a crime is uncovered during the search, it may lead to an arrest.

ADDITIONAL SUBTOPICS ON SEARCH WARRANTS

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