LawMeaning

Exclusionary Rule

Also known as: Illegally Obtained Evidence

In one sentence

Evidence obtained illegally cannot be used in court against a defendant.

Plain English

The exclusionary rule is a legal protection that prevents prosecutors from using evidence that was obtained in violation of your constitutional rights. For example, if police search your home without a warrant or permission, any evidence they find cannot be used against you in court. This rule encourages law enforcement to follow proper procedures and protects people from illegal searches.

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Example

Police searched a suspect's apartment without a warrant and found drugs. Under the exclusionary rule, the prosecutor cannot use those drugs as evidence in court because the search violated the defendant's Fourth Amendment rights.

Used in a sentence

“The defense attorney successfully invoked the exclusionary rule to suppress the illegally obtained evidence.”

Related terms

Evidence
Information, documents, or physical items presented in court to prove or disprove facts.
Defense Attorney
A lawyer who represents a person accused of a crime in court.
Due Process
The constitutional right to fair legal procedures and treatment by the government.
Conviction
A formal declaration that someone is guilty of a crime after trial or plea.
Beyond a Reasonable Doubt
The highest standard of proof required to convict a defendant in a criminal trial.
Stand Your Ground
A law allowing a person to use force, including deadly force, to defend themselves without a duty to retreat.
Castle Doctrine
A law stating that a person's home is their castle and they can use force to defend it without duty to retreat.
Expungement
A legal process that erases or seals a criminal conviction from your record.

This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney.