What is the Exclusionary Rule?

The Exclusionary Rule is a legal principle established to protect the rights of individuals by prohibiting the use of evidence obtained in violation of their constitutional rights, particularly those protected by the Fourth Amendment against unreasonable searches and seizures. This rule serves as a critical check on law enforcement practices, ensuring that evidence collected unlawfully cannot be used to support a conviction in a court of law.

The foundation of the Exclusionary Rule lies in the belief that allowing illegally obtained evidence undermines the integrity of the judicial process and can lead to abuses of power by law enforcement. Its application has been shaped by various court cases and legal precedents, which highlight the importance of upholding constitutional protections within the criminal justice system. This principle not only deters unlawful police conduct but also reinforces the notion that defendants should not suffer due process violations while ensuring justice is served.