Define: Search

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Quick Summary of Search

When police officers or investigators seek evidence of a crime in a person’s residence or vehicle, it is referred to as a search. In order to conduct a search, they must obtain permission from a judge or have a valid justification. Additionally, individuals may also conduct a title search to gather information about the ownership of a specific property or house.

Full Definition Of Search

Searching involves examining a place or records to find something. Police officers are not allowed to search someone’s property unless they have a warrant or a valid reason to believe a crime has been committed and there is no time to obtain a warrant. However, there are exceptions, such as when they witness someone entering a house with a gun, allowing them to search the house without a warrant to ensure everyone’s safety. Similarly, when purchasing a house, a title search is necessary to verify the legal ownership and identify any potential issues with the property, such as liens. These examples demonstrate the two different meanings of the word “search” – one related to police officers seeking evidence of a crime, and the other involving individuals seeking information about a property. In both cases, a systematic and methodical approach is employed to locate the desired information or evidence.

Search FAQ'S

In general, the police need a warrant to search your property, unless there are specific circumstances that allow for a warrantless search, such as consent, exigent circumstances, or if the evidence is in plain view.

Employers generally have the right to search an employee’s personal belongings at work if there is a legitimate reason, such as suspicion of theft or violation of company policies. However, the search should be reasonable and not overly intrusive.

Yes, the government has the authority to search electronic devices at the border without a warrant or suspicion. However, the search should still be reasonable and not violate your constitutional rights.

Landlords typically need to provide notice before entering and searching a rental property, except in emergency situations. The specific notice requirements may vary depending on state laws and the terms of the lease agreement.

The police can search your car during a traffic stop if they have probable cause to believe there is evidence of a crime in the vehicle. However, if the police do not have probable cause, they generally need your consent or a warrant to search your car.

Schools have the authority to search lockers, backpacks, and other personal belongings of students if there is a reasonable suspicion of a violation of school rules or policies. However, the search should still be reasonable and not violate the student’s rights.

Generally, the police need a warrant to search the contents of your cell phone, as it is considered a protected area under the Fourth Amendment. However, there are exceptions, such as when there is an immediate threat to public safety or if you give consent.

The police can obtain a search warrant to access your social media accounts if they have probable cause to believe that the information on your accounts is relevant to an ongoing investigation. However, they cannot search your accounts without a warrant or your consent.

Employers generally have the right to monitor and search work computers and email accounts, as long as they have a legitimate business reason and have informed employees about their monitoring policies. However, employees may still have some expectation of privacy, depending on the circumstances.

When you are lawfully arrested, the police have the authority to search your person and the immediate area within your reach for weapons or evidence that could be destroyed. This is known as a “search incident to arrest” and is generally allowed under the law.

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Disclaimer

This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

This glossary post was last updated: 16th April 2024.

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