What is protected under the 4th Amendment?

The 4th Amendment to the United States Constitution specifically protects citizens from unreasonable searches and seizures. This means that law enforcement agencies must obtain a warrant, supported by probable cause, before searching an individual's property or seizing their possessions. The intent of this amendment is to safeguard individuals' privacy rights and uphold the notion that people have a reasonable expectation of privacy in their own homes and belongings.

The focus of the 4th Amendment directly ties to the protection from government overreach and the importance of ensuring that searches are conducted lawfully and fairly. This principle is foundational in maintaining the balance between the needs of law enforcement and the rights of individuals in a democratic society.

In contrast, the right to trial by jury is protected under the 6th and 7th Amendments, freedom of speech is covered by the 1st Amendment, and the right to bear arms is addressed in the 2nd Amendment. Each of these rights stems from different amendments and addresses distinct aspects of individual liberties.