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A lawful order in law enforcement refers specifically to a statement from an authority figure, such as a police officer, that requires compliance from individuals. This order is grounded in the legal authority that officers hold, allowing them to enforce laws and maintain public order. Such orders are typically given in situations requiring immediate action for safety, security, or legal compliance.

The defining characteristic of a lawful order is its mandatory nature, meaning that it is not optional for citizens to obey. In this context, it provides clear guidelines that promote public safety and adherence to law. While the options suggest different forms of communication, only a lawful order has the underlying legal authority that enforces compliance in real-world scenarios.

Other options present ideas that lack the authoritative enforcement aspect: informal requests and suggestions do not compel adherence, whereas stating that an order must be obeyed at all times lacks the precision of identifying who conveys the authority that legitimizes the order. Therefore, the clarity and authority behind a statement from an authority figure make it the correct answer for defining a lawful order in law enforcement.