exigent circumstances

Exigent circumstances refer to situations where law enforcement can act without a warrant due to immediate and pressing needs. This can occur when there is a risk of evidence being destroyed, a danger to life, or a suspect fleeing. For example, if police hear screams in a home, they may enter without a warrant to address a potential emergency. The key point is that these situations require quick action to protect public safety or preserve evidence, and the usual requirement for a warrant can be waived in such instances.