Which amendment requires a warrant for searches and seizures?

The Fourth Amendment is fundamental in establishing the requirement that law enforcement must obtain a warrant before conducting searches and seizures. This amendment protects individuals from unreasonable searches and ensures that the government has a justifiable reason to invade a person’s privacy. It requires that warrants be based on probable cause and be specific about the area to be searched and the items sought.

The significance of the Fourth Amendment lies in its role in safeguarding citizens' rights against arbitrary government action, ensuring that privacy is respected and standard procedures are followed to gather evidence against individuals. This principle is crucial for maintaining the balance between individual freedoms and the need for law enforcement to carry out its duties effectively. The protections it offers are foundational to the legal framework surrounding criminal law and civil rights in the United States.