Which amendment protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures?

The 4th amendment is designed to protect individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures. This protection is fundamental to the right of privacy and ensures that law enforcement must have probable cause, as well as a warrant issued by a judge, to conduct searches and seize property. This amendment helps to limit government power and safeguard personal security.

In the context of law enforcement, this means that officers must adhere to legal standards when gathering evidence. Without probable cause, any evidence obtained may be deemed inadmissible in court, reinforcing the importance of the 4th amendment in ensuring fair legal proceedings and protecting citizens' rights against arbitrary intrusions by the state.