Which of the following actors in legal proceedings might issue an "Appearance notice"?

An "Appearance notice" is typically issued by a police officer. This legal document serves to inform an individual that they are required to appear in court to answer a charge or to testify as a witness. It is a tool used primarily in the arrest process, providing a way for law enforcement to summon a person without having to formally arrest them. By providing this notice, the police officer ensures that individuals understand their obligations to appear in court, thereby helping to facilitate the judicial process.

In contrast, while judges have various roles in legal proceedings, they do not issue appearance notices; instead, they oversee court proceedings. Prosecutors may initiate charges but do not typically issue these notices directly. Defense attorneys represent their clients and advocate on their behalf but do not have the authority to issue an appearance notice either. Therefore, the correct identification of the issuer of an "Appearance notice" is indeed a police officer.