The authority of a private person to make an arrest is usually:

The authority of a private person to make an arrest is usually a matter of state law. Each state in the U.S. has laws that dictate the conditions under which a private citizen can make an arrest, commonly referred to as "citizen's arrest" laws. These laws vary from state to state, specifying factors such as the types of offenses that allow for a citizen's arrest and the procedures that must be followed. Understanding the legal framework in a specific jurisdiction is essential for determining the scope and limitations of a private person’s ability to lawfully make an arrest.

The concept of unlimited authority, where a private person could arrest anyone at any time, does not align with legal standards and protections against false imprisonment or abuse of authority. Similarly, while obtaining a warrant is typically a requirement for law enforcement officials, private citizens do not necessarily have to follow the same protocols as sworn officers. The authority of a deputized guard is also distinct, as these individuals operate under specific authority granted by law enforcement agencies, which does not equate to the general citizen's arrest rights.