Form 2(c) Pre-Charge Arrest Warrant (A.R.S. § 13-3897(A))

When police want to arrest someone but no charges have been filed yet, they can ask a judge to issue an arrest warrant. To get this warrant, an officer or other authorized person must fill out and sign a written statement explaining why they believe the person committed a crime. The judge reviews this statement before deciding whether to approve the warrant.

The written statement must include specific facts, not just general claims. It needs to show the judge enough real evidence to believe the person likely committed a crime. The person asking for the warrant must swear that the information is true, either by signing under oath or by signing a declaration that confirms the facts are accurate.

Once a judge approves and signs the warrant, law enforcement can use it to arrest the named person. The warrant must clearly identify who is to be arrested and what crime they are suspected of committing.