What is required for a police search to be considered lawful under the 4th Amendment?

For a police search to be considered lawful under the Fourth Amendment, the correct requirement is obtaining a search warrant from a judge. The Fourth Amendment protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures, which means that law enforcement typically needs judicial authorization to conduct searches. A search warrant is granted based on probable cause, where law enforcement must present sufficient evidence to demonstrate that a search is justified.

The requirement of a search warrant ensures that there is a system of checks and balances in place, preventing arbitrary or intrusive searches by police. While there are exceptions to the warrant requirement, such as exigent circumstances or consent, the default standard for a lawful search remains the necessity of a warrant issued by a judicial authority. This principle upholds the right to privacy and safeguards against government overreach in law enforcement actions.