Law Enforcement Authority

/ˈlɔː ˌɛnˈfɔːrsmənt ɔːˈθɒrɪti/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The legal power granted to designated individuals or agencies to enforce laws, maintain public order, and administer justice.
    The city's law enforcement authority responded quickly to the reported robbery.
  2. (n.) An entity or organization vested with the responsibility to investigate crimes and apprehend offenders.
    Federal law enforcement authorities have jurisdiction over interstate criminal cases.

Forms

  • law enforcement authority

Commentary

Used to describe both the legal power and the institutions charged with enforcing laws; important to distinguish from individual officers when drafting legal documents.

This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.

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Amicus Docs | Law Enforcement Authority Definition