What is the purpose of a search warrant as defined by the Code of Criminal Procedure?

The purpose of a search warrant, as defined by the Code of Criminal Procedure, is specifically to authorize law enforcement to conduct a search for particular property or evidence associated with a crime and to seize it if found. This legal document is essential because it ensures that the search is conducted under lawful circumstances, protecting an individual's Fourth Amendment rights against unreasonable searches and seizures.

A search warrant is typically issued by a judge or magistrate based on probable cause, which is a requirement that ensures there is sufficient reason to believe that evidence of a crime will be found in the designated location. This process underscores the importance of judicial oversight in law enforcement activities, preventing arbitrary intrusions into personal privacy.

The other options address different legal authorities and functions. For instance, while a search warrant allows for the seizure of property, it does not grant legal authority to arrest, question suspects, or summon witnesses, which are governed by separate legal instruments and procedures. This distinction highlights the specific and targeted purpose of a search warrant in the criminal justice process.