Which amendment prohibits unreasonable searches and seizures?

• A. First
• B. Second
• C. Fourth
• D. Sixth

Answer: (C)

The concept at play is the protection against unreasonable government intrusion. The amendment that prohibits unreasonable searches and seizures is the Fourth Amendment. It guards people and their belongings—homes, papers, and effects—from arbitrary police actions. To legally search or seize, authorities usually need probable cause and a search warrant issued by a judge, which describes with particularity what will be searched and what items may be taken. This requirement creates a check on police power and helps safeguard individual privacy.

There are recognized exceptions where a warrant isn’t required, such as when a person consents, when there are exigent circumstances, when evidence is in plain view, or in certain vehicle searches. But the general rule is that searches and seizures must be reasonable, with the Fourth Amendment providing the core protection.