Criminal Justice Practice Exam 2025 - Free Criminal Justice Practice Questions and Study Guide

The Fourth Amendment protects citizens against unreasonable searches and seizures, establishing a fundamental right to privacy. This amendment requires law enforcement to have probable cause and a warrant based on that cause to conduct searches or seize property. It is designed to ensure that individuals are not subjected to arbitrary intrusion by the government, thereby safeguarding personal privacy and property rights.

The Fifth Amendment primarily addresses issues related to due process, self-incrimination, and double jeopardy. The Sixth Amendment guarantees rights related to criminal prosecutions, including the right to a fair trial and legal counsel. The Eighth Amendment focuses on prohibiting excessive bail, excessive fines, and cruel and unusual punishments. Therefore, while each of the other amendments serves important functions within the Constitution, it is the Fourth Amendment that specifically addresses the protection against unreasonable searches and seizures.