Written order from a magistrate

• A. Warrant
• B. Subpoena
• C. Affidavit
• D. Decree

Answer: (A)

A written order from a magistrate that authorizes police to take a specific action is a warrant. It is the formal directive that allows law enforcement to conduct searches, seizures, or arrests, based on probable cause and usually detailing the scope and subject of the action. A subpoena, while also a court order, compels a person to appear or produce documents but does not authorize a search or arrest. An affidavit is a sworn statement used to establish probable cause for a warrant, not the order itself. A decree is a civil court ruling, not a police action. So the term that fits a written order granting authority to act is warrant.