What does the 4th Amendment protect citizens from?

The Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution is specifically designed to protect citizens from "unreasonable searches and seizures." This means that law enforcement and government authorities cannot search a person's property or seize their belongings without a valid reason or warrant. A warrant must typically be supported by probable cause and must specifically describe the place to be searched and the items to be seized.

This protection is fundamental to preserving individual privacy and liberty, ensuring that citizens have a reasonable expectation of security in their homes and personal effects. The intent of this amendment is to prevent arbitrary and oppressive actions by the state, reflecting the framers' desire to establish a framework that limits governmental power in favor of personal freedom.

Understanding this core aspect of the Fourth Amendment is crucial for recognizing how it safeguards personal rights against the potential overreach of government authority, distinguishing it from the other protections outlined in the Bill of Rights.