Alabama § 15-7-4 - Warrant of Arrest - Defined; Contents; Form.
Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 15-7-4 — Warrant of Arrest - Defined; Contents; Form., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 15-7-4. Warrant of Arrest - Defined; Contents; Form.
(a) A “warrant of arrest” is an order in writing, issued and signed by a judge or magistrate, stating the substance of the complaint and directed to a proper officer, commanding him to arrest the defendant.
(b) Such warrant must designate the name of the defendant, if known; but if it states that the name is unknown to the judge or magistrate, then no name need be inserted. It must also state the offense by name or so that it can be clearly inferred, the county in which it was issued must appear from some part of the warrant, and the warrant must be signed by the judge or magistrate, with his name and initials of office, or the same must in some way appear from the warrant. It must be directed “to any lawful officer of the state,” and, if executed by any lawful officer having authority to execute it, it is valid without regard to its direction.
(c) A warrant of arrest may be in substance as follows:
To any lawful officer of the state:
Complaint on oath having been made before me that the offense of (designating or describing it) has been committed and accusing C. D. thereof, you are, therefore, commanded forthwith to arrest C. D., and bring him before me.
Source: official Alabama text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 15-7-4
What does Code of Alabama § 15-7-4 cover?
Section 15-7-4 ("Warrant of Arrest - Defined; Contents; Form.") is part of the Code of Alabama, the codified statutory law of Alabama. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Alabama § 15-7-4?
A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 15-7-4" (Alabama). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Alabama law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Alabama official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Alabama attorney.
How does Alabama § 15-7-4 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Alabama can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Alabama.