A magistrate serves as a gatekeeper to bringing criminal charges by warrant or summons. This statement is:

A magistrate serves as a gatekeeper to bringing criminal charges by warrant or summons. This statement is:

• A. True
• B. Only in civil matters
• C. False
• D. Only for felonies

Answer: (A)

Magistrates review a sworn complaint and supporting evidence to determine if there is probable cause to charge someone and to authorize a warrant or summons to secure the person’s appearance in court. This gatekeeping role applies to criminal charges in general—not just civil matters, and not limited to felonies—since warrants and summonses can be issued for offenses across the spectrum when probable cause exists. That statement is true.

Magistrates review a sworn complaint and supporting evidence to determine if there is probable cause to charge someone and to authorize a warrant or summons to secure the person’s appearance in court. This gatekeeping role applies to criminal charges in general—not just civil matters, and not limited to felonies—since warrants and summonses can be issued for offenses across the spectrum when probable cause exists. That statement is true.