What distinguishes a summons from an arrest warrant according to the Code of Criminal Procedure?

A summons is a legal document that requests a person's appearance in court to answer a charge or to provide testimony. It serves as a notification to the individual that they must attend court at a specified time and place. In contrast, an arrest warrant is a more forceful legal instrument that authorizes law enforcement officials to take an individual into custody. The key distinction lies in the nature of the two documents: a summons conveys a request for voluntary compliance, while an arrest warrant mandates the immediate detention of the individual, compelling their appearance in court through law enforcement action.

The distinction is particularly important in the criminal justice system, as it reflects differing approaches to ensuring court attendance. A summons allows individuals the opportunity to appear on their own accord, whereas an arrest warrant leverages the authority of law enforcement to enforce compliance. Understanding this difference is essential for legal professionals and law enforcement officers when navigating the legal processes related to court appearances.