Which rule prohibits the use of evidence seized in violation of the Fourth Amendment?

• A. Miranda Rights
• B. Exclusionary Rule
• C. Right to Counsel
• D. Double Jeopardy

Answer: (B)

The Exclusionary Rule prohibits the use of evidence obtained in violation of the Fourth Amendment. This rule exists to deter police from conducting unlawful searches and seizures by excluding illegally gathered evidence from being used in court. The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures and generally requires a warrant or probable cause. When evidence is obtained without proper authority, admitting it would reward illegal conduct and undermine constitutional rights. There are exceptions and related doctrines, but the central point is that unlawfully obtained evidence cannot be admitted to prove guilt. The other protections address different safeguards: Miranda rights govern warnings during interrogation, the right to counsel ensures legal representation during critical stages, and double jeopardy protects against being tried twice for the same offense.