plain view exception

The plain view exception is a legal principle that allows law enforcement officers to seize evidence without a warrant if they clearly see it in an area where they are lawfully present. For example, if police are performing a routine check and spot illegal items in a car’s window, they can confiscate those items without obtaining a warrant first. This exception is based on the idea that if something is openly visible and can be easily recognized as evidence of a crime, it is reasonable for officers to act without additional legal permission.