What It Means
Protects against unreasonable searches by the government. Police generally need a warrant.
Historical Context
British officials used "writs of assistance" to search colonists' homes without specific cause.
Original Text
“The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause...”
- Amendment Number
- 4 of 27
- Ratified
- 1791
- Category
- Bill of Rights
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Amendment 31791
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Amendment 61791
Right to a Fair Trial
Amendment 71791
Trial by Jury in Civil Cases
Amendment 81791
Bail and Punishment
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Rights Retained by the People
Amendment 101791
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