Author Description

This guidebook provides a reference on the current law regarding searches and seizures. Written in plain English, it also serves as a first-line resource for law enforcement officers in determining issues such as when a warrant is required, whether a situation involves exigent circumstances, and whether consent has been given. The straightforward question-and-answer format covers federal law regarding Fourth Amendment basics, warrants, and situations where warrantless searches occur such as at borders and roadblocks, with consent, in plain view/plain feel, on abandoned property, and at common areas. Important state cases are also included and differences between state laws are discussed.