Search Warrant

Also known as: Warrant to Search

In one sentence

A court order allowing police to search a specific place for evidence.

Plain English

A search warrant is a written permission slip from a judge that allows police to search a particular location—like a home, car, or business—to look for evidence of a crime. Police must show the judge they have probable cause (reasonable grounds) to believe evidence is there before the judge will issue the warrant. The warrant limits where police can search and what they can look for, protecting people's privacy rights.

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Example

Police believe a suspect is hiding stolen jewelry in his apartment. They go to a judge, present evidence of probable cause, and the judge issues a search warrant. Police can now legally enter the apartment and search for the jewelry.

Used in a sentence

“The detective obtained a search warrant to examine the suspect's phone records and email accounts.”

Related terms

Probable Cause

Reasonable grounds to believe a person committed a crime or evidence exists.

Felony

A serious crime punishable by more than one year in prison or death.

false arrest

An unlawful arrest made without proper legal authority, probable cause, or a valid warrant.

adjudication hearing

A court proceeding where a judge hears evidence and makes a formal decision about a legal matter.

burglary in the first degree

The most serious form of burglary, typically involving weapons, violence, or entry into a dwelling at night.

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.