What is a "citation" in law enforcement terms?

In law enforcement terminology, a "citation" refers to a document that charges an individual with a violation. This could be for minor offenses, such as traffic violations or other infractions that do not typically require a court appearance unless the individual wishes to contest the citation.

Citations serve as a way for law enforcement to enforce laws in a non-confrontational manner by allowing violators to acknowledge the infraction and, in many cases, pay a fine without proceeding to a more serious legal process. By issuing a citation instead of making an arrest, officers can efficiently manage their time and resources while still holding individuals accountable for their actions.

The other options describe different legal concepts. A written notice of a legal right involves informing an individual of their rights under the law, which is not the same as a citation. A record of police training sessions pertains to the internal documentation within law enforcement agencies and does not relate to enforcement actions against individuals. A summary of a criminal case would involve an overview of proceedings in court, which is distinct from the initial enforcement action represented by a citation.