Search and Seizure Laws

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Thousands of court cases have addressed the question: Did the police act legally when entering a home, business, or car, and then performing a search? Learn about some of the most basic elements of law that make a police search legal or unlawful.

Search and Seizure Principles MORE

The Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. But what, exactly, does that mean?

Understanding Search and Seizure Law
Learn when the government can invade your privacy to hunt for evidence of a crime.
Search and Seizure Basics
Learn which searches are protected by the Fourth Amendment, and what happens for your case if a search is ruled illegal.
Illegal Searches and Your Criminal Case
Sometimes, the prosecution and courts can still use illegally seized evidence.

Search Warrants MORE

In most cases, police must obtain a search warrant before conducting a search. Learn about when and how the police obtain a search warrant and when a warrant might not be necessary.

Search Warrants: What They Are and When They're Necessary
Learn when police officers must obtain a warrant before they search your home or other property.
Search Warrants and Probable Cause
A judge will issue a warrant if the police can show that it's reasonably likely that the search will turn up contraband or evidence of a crime.
Police Searches and Improperly Issued Warrants
What happens to evidence that's obtained after a judge issues a warrant in error?

The Patriot Act MORE

The Patriot Act was born from the 9/11 attacks, but it's legacy lives on, and not just when it comes to terrorism.

What is the Patriot Act and how can it affect a criminal case?
The Patriot Act is a way for the government to monitor the public, not just for terrorism, but for any kind of crime.
The Patriot Act and Electronic Communications
Electronic communications aren't nearly as private as they were pre-Patriot Act.
The Patriot Act and Library Records
Maybe overdue fines shouldn't be your biggest worry when you check out that book.