Search and seizure laws

Search and seizure laws protect individuals from unreasonable intrusions by law enforcement. Under the Fourth Amendment, police generally need a warrant, backed by probable cause, to search a person’s property or seize items. However, there are exceptions, such as consent or exigent circumstances (urgent situations). Searches must respect privacy rights, and evidence obtained unlawfully may be excluded from court. These laws balance the need for public safety with individual rights, ensuring that law enforcement acts within legal boundaries while investigating suspected crimes.