What is the "Exclusionary Rule"?

The Exclusionary Rule is a legal principle that prohibits the use of evidence in court if it was obtained in violation of a person’s constitutional rights, particularly the Fourth Amendment, which protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. This rule is designed to deter law enforcement from engaging in unlawful practices while gathering evidence. By ensuring that illegally obtained evidence cannot be used in court, the Exclusionary Rule upholds the integrity of the judicial process and helps protect individual rights.

This rule reinforces the idea that law enforcement must adhere to established legal standards when conducting investigations and gathering evidence. When evidence is excluded from consideration in a legal proceeding, it not only affects the outcome of that particular case but also serves as a broader deterrent against potential violations of rights in the future.