Police Searches

Having your possessions searched by the police can be very upsetting. Adding to the stress and confusion of this situation is the fact that many Americans do not fully understand their rights and obligations concerning police searches. Search warrants - documents issued by judges that grant officers permission to search your belongings - are part of a complex area of law with many nuances and gray areas.

If you believe your rights have been violated during a police search, you need to take action as soon as possible. For more information on your search warrant rights under Texas law, contact the Austin criminal lawyer Ian Inglis today at 512-472-1950.

Police Searches and Texas Law

With certain exceptions, police officers always need a warrant from a judge before they can search your property or your person. Before allowing police officers into your home or vehicle, you have every right to ask for a warrant and refuse entry if one is not provided. Searches and seizures that are not backed up with a warrant can have serious consequences for a police department.

A judge may issue a search warrant if officers can persuade him or her that you may have one or more of the following on your property:

• Riotous tools or weapons
• Obscene materials that violate the law
• Stolen property
• Property that can be used or altered to commit a crime
• Illegal weapons or munitions
• Items that are illegal under Texas law
• Drugs, controlled substances, or paraphernalia that violates Texas law
• Gambling equipment or paraphernalia

A search warrant will specify where the police are allowed to search and what they are allowed to seize if they find it. It is important to note that police generally do not need a warrant to search your person during an arrest; however, in almost all other circumstances, you have a legally protected right to privacy.

Contact an Austin Defense Attorney

If you or someone you know has been searched by police officials for harboring or possessing illegal items or materials, contact the Austin criminal defense attorney Ian Inglis at 512-472-1950 immediately.