READ: Collecting and Packaging Evidence

Search Warrants

Another major consideration when it comes to collecting evidence is ensuring that the search conforms to the 4^th amendment. The 4^th amendment of the U.S. Constitution protects citizens from unreasonable search and seizure. Basically this means the police and investigators need a search warrant in order to search for evidence. In some cases, if evidence is obtained without a warrant it may not be allowed in court. Sometimes investigators will have to wait to receive a warrant from a judge before they can search for evidence. It is important that investigators have a warrant so that the evidence will be allowed in court.

There are several exceptions where a search warrant is not required. If the search is being conducted because of an emergency, such as a person obviously needing help inside a home, a warrant is not needed. If there is reason to believe that evidence may be destroyed before a warrant can be obtained, a warrant is not required. If the person who owns the property allows the officers to search the property, a warrant is not needed.