Exclusionary Rule

A legal principle that prohibits the use of evidence gathered in violation of a defendant’s constitutional rights (such as through an illegal search and seizure) from being admitted in a criminal trial.

Example: If police search a home without a warrant or probable cause and find illegal drugs, the exclusionary rule typically prevents that evidence from being used to convict the homeowner.

Common misconception: The exclusionary rule means the defendant goes free. The rule only suppresses the specific illegally obtained evidence; the prosecution can still proceed with the case using other legally obtained evidence.