When law enforcement oversteps its legal boundaries, the United States Constitution provides a vital layer of protection, especially under the Fourth Amendment, which guards against unlawful searches and seizures. What happens when police cross that line? That is where the exclusionary rule comes into play. The exclusionary rule is a legal principle established by the United States Supreme Court that ensures any evidence obtained illegally—whether through an unlawful search, a defective warrant, or a Fourth Amendment violation cannot be used against you in court.
How the Exclusionary Rule Works
What Does This Mean for You
If law enforcement obtained evidence through:
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A warrantless search
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A search based on a false or misleading affidavit
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A stop that lacked probable cause
Then you may be entitled to file a Motion to Suppress. This legal filing challenges the admissibility of the evidence in question. If the court agrees that the evidence was obtained unlawfully, it must be excluded from your case. It also applies to what is known as derivative evidence—information or materials discovered as a result of the illegal search. Often referred to as the “fruit of the poisonous tree,” this evidence is also considered inadmissible.
Exceptions to the Exclusionary Rule
Are There Situations Where Illegally Obtained Evidence Can Still Be Used
In some circumstances, federal courts allow exceptions to the exclusionary rule:
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Good Faith Exception
If law enforcement acted in reasonable reliance on a defective warrant that appeared valid, the evidence may still be admitted. -
Independent Source Doctrine
If the evidence was later obtained through a separate, legal investigation unrelated to the original illegal search, it may be admissible. -
Inevitable Discovery Doctrine
If it can be proven that the evidence would have been found anyway through lawful means, it may be introduced in court.
These exceptions make it essential to evaluate the full context of your case with an experienced defense attorney.
Why You Need a Skilled Criminal Defense Attorney
With over 24 years of experience—including service as a prosecutor—I know how law enforcement builds cases and how to challenge illegal searches. At PKN Law, we take a deep look into how evidence was obtained, identify any violations of your constitutional rights, and file motions to suppress when appropriate. Every case is unique, and your rights matter. If evidence was obtained through a violation of your Fourth Amendment rights, we will fight to ensure it is kept out of court.
Contact PKN Law Today
If you believe your rights were violated during a search or seizure, do not wait. Suppressing illegally obtained evidence can be a decisive factor in your case.
📞 Call (412) 454-5582 or visit 🌐 patricknightingale.com to schedule your consultation today.