Which amendment prohibits unreasonable search and seizure?

The Fourth Amendment is specifically designed to protect citizens from unreasonable searches and seizures by the government. It requires law enforcement to have probable cause and, in most cases, a warrant to conduct searches and seize property. This fundamental right is rooted in the principle of privacy, ensuring that individuals can feel secure in their persons, homes, papers, and effects without undue interference from government authorities.

The Fourth Amendment aims to establish a balance between the need for law enforcement to conduct searches for evidence of criminal activity and the individual's right to privacy. The language of the amendment emphasizes that searches and seizures must be reasonable, which has been interpreted through numerous court cases to help define the standards for police conduct in these situations.

Understanding this amendment is crucial, especially in the context of law enforcement practices, as it sets guiding principles on how evidence can be gathered and the protections afforded to citizens.