Which term describes the formal line of authority in a police organization?

• A. Chain of command
• B. Organizational chart
• C. Authority hierarchy
• D. Command structure

Answer: (C)

The formal line of authority in a police organization is chain of command, which defines who has the authority to issue orders, who must follow them, and who is accountable for those actions. This structure ensures a clear flow of direction from top leaders down to frontline officers, promoting unity of command, efficient decision-making, and proper supervision. An organizational chart simply maps positions and reporting relationships, rather than the authoritative flow itself. Authority hierarchy is a related idea about levels of power, but the standard term used to describe the official line of authority is chain of command. Command structure refers more to how commands are organized and carried out in practice, not the specific phrase for the formal line of authority.