A warrant abstract is either:
- A carbon copy of an original warrant ("Abstract" in bold letters on its face);
- A JDIC message sent by the agency which holds the original warrant; or
- A JDIC message from CWS.
Warrant abstracts are authorized by Penal Code section 850, and shall contain the following information:
- Warrant type (felony, misdemeanor, civil, etc.);
- Defendant's name;
- Description of defendant;
- Address (if known);
- Warrant number;
- Charge(s);
- Issuing court or agency;
- Name of issuing magistrate;
- Amount of bail; and
- Any restrictions on service.
An arrest may be made on the authority of a warrant abstract as though the arresting officer holds the original warrant.