What does the exclusionary rule prevent?

The exclusionary rule is a legal principle that serves to protect individuals' rights by prohibiting the admission of evidence that has been obtained in violation of their constitutional rights, particularly under the Fourth Amendment, which guards against unreasonable searches and seizures. This means that if law enforcement obtains evidence illegally—such as through an unlawful search or without a proper warrant—this evidence cannot be used in a court of law to prosecute an individual. The rationale behind this rule is to deter police misconduct and ensure fair legal processes.

Understanding the purpose of the exclusionary rule highlights its significance in the criminal justice system. By disallowing the use of illegally obtained evidence, the rule aims to uphold the integrity of judicial proceedings and protect defendants from wrongful conviction based on improperly acquired information. This foundational principle reinforces the idea that obtaining evidence must respect constitutional rights to ensure justice is served fairly.