May the police search you without a warrant?

That depends on whether you are under arrest. If the police have lawfully arrested you, they are permitted to search you. They also are allowed to search the area under your immediate control (also known as your wingspan, or where you can reach). They could then use that evidence against you in court.

>>Do the police have the right to tap a telephone?
>>Do wiretaps have to be approved in advance?
>>May the police search you without a warrant?
>>Do the police have the right to stop and frisk you?
>>Can the police seize what they find in a frisk?
>>Does the law permit the police to search a home or items in it?
>>Can the police ever search a home without a warrant?
>>What happens if a search is not valid?

Practical Law Home | Criminal Law | Basics of Criminal Law | The Police & Your Rights
*Rules on Search and Seizure* | Juvenile Criminal Cases | Victims' Rights