Which agencies are responsible for maintaining warrant files in most counties?

Local agencies are typically responsible for maintaining warrant files in most counties. This is because local law enforcement agencies, such as police departments and sheriff's offices, operate at the county or municipal level and handle law enforcement duties pertinent to their respective jurisdictions. They have the most direct connection to the community they serve and are responsible for the enforcement of local laws, which includes issuing and managing warrants for arrests or other legal actions.

Local agencies also maintain close communication with the courts, which issue warrants, and are equipped to ensure that these warrants are properly documented and executed. This structure allows for efficient administration of justice and public safety within the community. In contrast, state, federal, and international agencies have wider jurisdictions that encompass broader legal frameworks and responsibilities, which may not focus on specific county-level warrant management.