Which legal principle ensures that evidence obtained without a warrant is inadmissible in court?

The exclusionary rule is a legal principle that prevents evidence collected in violation of a person's Fourth Amendment rights from being used in a court of law. This principle is rooted in the idea that allowing such evidence compromises the integrity of the judicial system and upholds citizens' rights against unreasonable searches and seizures. Under this rule, if law enforcement officials gather evidence without the proper legal authority, such as a search warrant or probable cause, that evidence cannot be used to prosecute a defendant, thus promoting the accountability of law enforcement and ensuring that constitutional rights are respected.

This principle is crucial for maintaining the balance between effective law enforcement and the protection of individual rights in the justice system. Its application serves as a deterrent against unlawful police procedures and encourages law enforcement agencies to adhere to legal standards when conducting investigations.