What is a search warrant?

A search warrant is a legal document that authorizes law enforcement officers to conduct a search of a specific location for evidence related to a crime. The warrant must be issued by a judge or magistrate and is based on probable cause, which means there must be a reasonable belief that evidence of criminal activity can be found in the specified location. This legal framework serves to protect individuals' rights against unreasonable searches and seizures, as guaranteed by the Fourth Amendment of the United States Constitution.

The specificity of the location and the items to be searched for or seized are critical aspects of a search warrant, ensuring that law enforcement has clear guidelines to follow in their efforts to uphold the law while respecting individual privacy rights.