What is the difference between arrest and detain?

Definitions

arrest

- Referring to the action of taking someone into custody by a law enforcement officer.

- Describing the act of stopping or restraining someone due to suspicion of committing a crime.

- Talking about the legal process of depriving someone of their freedom due to criminal charges.

detain

- Referring to the act of temporarily holding someone in custody or preventing them from leaving.

- Describing the action of keeping someone in a particular place for questioning or investigation.

- Talking about the legal process of restricting someone's freedom for a short period of time.

List of Similarities

• 1. Both involve the restriction of someone's freedom.
• 2. Both can be carried out by law enforcement officers.
• 3. Both are related to the legal process.
• 4. Both can be used in the context of criminal activities.
• 5. Both can result in someone being held against their will.

What is the difference?

• 1. Authority: Arrest is typically done by law enforcement officers with legal authority, while detain can be done by anyone with the intention of temporarily holding someone.
• 2. Duration: Arrest usually involves a longer period of custody, while detain is often temporary and can be for a shorter duration.
• 3. Legal Process: Arrest is a formal legal process involving criminal charges, while detain can be done for various reasons, including questioning or investigation.
• 4. Seriousness: Arrest is usually associated with more serious offenses, while detain can be for minor infractions or suspicion of involvement in a crime.
• 5. Consequences: Arrest can lead to criminal charges and potential imprisonment, while detain is often a temporary measure without long-term legal consequences.

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Remember this!

Arrest and detain are both terms used to describe the restriction of someone's freedom. However, there are some key differences between the two. Arrest is typically carried out by law enforcement officers with legal authority, involves a longer period of custody, and is part of a formal legal process with potential criminal charges. On the other hand, detain can be done by anyone to temporarily hold someone, is often for a shorter duration, and may not involve formal criminal charges.