What does the Fourth Amendment protect against?

The Fourth Amendment of the United States Constitution primarily protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures by the government. This means that law enforcement authorities cannot search a person’s property or seize their belongings without a valid warrant based on probable cause. The intent of this amendment is to uphold personal privacy and ensure that individuals are shielded from arbitrary actions by the state that could infringe upon their rights.

By requiring probable cause and a warrant for searches and seizures, the Fourth Amendment establishes a system of checks and balances intended to protect citizens from abuse of power. This critical protection is designed to prevent the government from entering homes or properties without justification, reinforcing the principle that individuals have a right to their privacy and to be free from unwarranted interference.

The other options address distinct legal protections: self-incrimination is covered by the Fifth Amendment, excessive bail is addressed in the Eighth Amendment, and protection against double jeopardy is also found in the Fifth Amendment. Each of these protections serves a different function in the context of individual rights and legal proceedings.