What characterizes a no knock warrant?

A no-knock warrant is characterized by the ability to enter a property without prior notification to the residents. This type of warrant is typically issued in situations where announcing the officers' presence before entering may pose a threat to their safety, risk the destruction of evidence, or lead to the fleeing of suspects. By bypassing the requirement to announce themselves, law enforcement can execute their operations more efficiently and safely.

In contrast to a standard warrant, where officers must knock and announce their presence before entering, a no-knock warrant provides them the authority to immediately enter a premises. The intention behind this is to allow for swift action when the circumstances warrant it. Other options in the question do not accurately reflect the defining aspect of a no-knock warrant, which is the lack of required notification to those inside the property being searched.