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Can an illegal search impact your criminal case?

On Behalf of | Sep 23, 2024 | Drug Charges

The U.S. Constitution protects you from unreasonable searches and seizures, which means the police must follow the law when obtaining or seizing evidence during criminal investigations. Otherwise, it is a violation of your rights, with potentially far-reaching implications.

A search and seizure by the police is unlawful if they do not have legally justifiable grounds, such as probable cause or a valid search warrant. Here is how it can impact your criminal case.

The evidence may be inadmissible in court

If the police obtained the evidence illegally, the court may be excluded from your case and can’t be used to prove your guilt. For instance, officers may find incriminating evidence after stopping your vehicle without reasonable suspicion or searching your home without a warrant. In such scenarios, the evidence obtained illegally could be thrown out. It could mean a lot to your case.

Should crucial evidence be excluded from your criminal case because the police violated your constitutional rights, it can make it difficult for the prosecution to convict you on the charges. In other words, it significantly weakens the prosecution’s case.

It can increase your chances of a dismissal or reduced charges

In some situations, excluding key evidence can lead to a dismissal of your case. Even if the case proceeds, the prosecution may offer you a more favorable plea deal or reduce the charges if they lack sufficient evidence to proceed to trial. Having the upper hand in such situations can increase your chances of a more positive outcome.

The legality of your search and seizure can be the deciding factor in your criminal case. Reaching out for qualified legal assistance can help you navigate the complexities and help ensure that your rights are protected throughout your case.

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