Which doctrine prohibits the use of evidence obtained through an unlawful search and seizure?

• A. Exclusionary Rule
• B. Double Jeopardy
• C. Miranda Rule
• D. Privileges and Immunities

Answer: (A)

The Exclusionary Rule is the principle at work here. It bars the use of evidence obtained in violation of the Fourth Amendment from being used in a criminal trial, serving to deter unlawful searches and seizures and protect constitutional rights. The rule applies to both federal and state prosecutions (through incorporation via the Fourteenth Amendment) and covers not only the directly seized evidence but also derivative evidence, often called the fruit of the poisonous tree. The other doctrines address different protections: Double Jeopardy protects against being tried twice for the same offense, the Miranda rule requires warnings before custodial interrogation, and privileges and immunities restrict certain state actions toward out-of-state or foreign individuals.