What is a core principle of the Exclusionary Rule?

The Exclusionary Rule is a legal principle that prevents the use of evidence obtained in violation of a person's constitutional rights in a court of law. Specifically, it is designed to deter law enforcement from engaging in unlawful practices, such as illegal searches and seizures, thereby protecting citizens’ Fourth Amendment rights. By removing illegally obtained evidence from trials, the rule aims to uphold the integrity of the judicial process and ensure that convictions are based only on lawfully obtained evidence.

This principle is crucial for maintaining public trust in the legal system, as it emphasizes that the means of obtaining evidence must comply with constitutional standards. Without this rule, there would be less incentive for law enforcement to adhere to the legal protocols established to protect individuals’ rights against arbitrary government actions.