search and seizure doctrine

The search and seizure doctrine refers to legal principles that protect individuals from unreasonable searches of their person, property, or possessions and from being seized or taken by authorities without proper justification. Under the Fourth Amendment, law enforcement generally needs a warrant supported by probable cause to conduct searches or seize items. This doctrine balances individual privacy rights against government interests, ensuring that any intrusion is justified, necessary, and conducted lawfully. Exceptions exist, but overall, it aims to prevent arbitrary or unjustified intrusions by authorities into personal privacy.