New York State Private Investigator Practice Exam

What is a bench warrant?

1. A legal order directing a police officer to apprehend a suspect

2. A document allowing a suspect to be released on bail

3. An official request for a trial to be postponed

4. A summary of evidence against a defendant

The correct answer is: A legal order directing a police officer to apprehend a suspect

A bench warrant is indeed a legal order issued by a judge, directing law enforcement to apprehend an individual. This typically occurs when a person has failed to appear in court as required or has violated conditions set by the court. The warrant authorizes the police to arrest the person named in the warrant, ensuring the individual is brought back before the court to address the matter for which they were summoned. The other options do not accurately define a bench warrant. The option about allowing a suspect to be released on bail refers to a different legal process involving a bail bond rather than a warrant for arrest. The request for a trial postponement highlights procedural aspects of legal proceedings but is unrelated to the actual enforcement of a court's authority through arrest. Lastly, providing a summary of evidence against a defendant relates to the pre-trial procedures or discovery processes, not an arrest warrant. Thus, the definition of bench warrant as a directive for apprehension is clearly the correct understanding in the context of legal terminology.