Criminal Defense Lawyer in Los Angeles
Under the California Constitution and the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, people in the United States have the right to be free from illegal search and seizure. At the Law Offices of Bruce Margolin in West Hollywood, California, attorney Bruce Margolin is absolutely dedicated to protecting the privacy rights of individuals.
For more than 40 years, attorney Margolin has been provided skilled legal representation for people accused of crimes and serving the victims of illegal searches and seizures. Contact the firm today for a complimentary consultation regarding any criminal charges you may be facing.
Understanding the Laws Governing Search and Seizure
A police officer is only allowed to search your person or your private property if the officer has probable cause - that is, a reasonable belief that a crime has been committed or is about to be committed. Without probable cause or consent from the person to be searched, generally searches and seizures are illegal.
Know Your Rights - You Do Not Have to Consent to a Search
Police officers know the restrictions, and know that they are not allowed to search without probable cause. To get around this requirement, they will often ask for your consent. If a police officer asks for permission to search your car, your home, or your person - you generally have the right to say no.
Far too frequently, people surrender their right to privacy without realizing that they are doing so. If you give a police officer permission to search, anything that officer finds can be used against you. Protect yourself - don't surrender your rights by consenting to a search.
The Penalties for Illegal Searches and Seizures
To ensure that police officers respect individuals' constitutional rights, the U.S. Supreme Court provides strict penalties. If the police perform an illegal search, the evidence they obtain as a result of this search will not be allowed in a courtroom.
This means that if police search you without probable cause, even if they find drugs, they will not be allowed to present this evidence to a jury. Illegal search and seizure is one of the strongest defenses available for any criminal matter.
If you have been accused of any crime, contact the firm to discuss your concerns with an experienced criminal defense attorney. Attorney Margolin can help you understand your rights and remedies following an illegal search or seizure.
