A search warrant is a legal document issued by a judge or magistrate that allows law enforcement officers to search a specific location for evidence related to a crime. The warrant must detail the place to be searched and the items sought, ensuring that the search is reasonable and not overly broad. This process helps protect individuals' rights under the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which guards against unreasonable searches and seizures. To obtain a search warrant, law enforcement must present probable cause, supported by evidence or testimony, to justify the need for the search. Once issued, officers must follow the terms of the warrant and may need to knock and announce their presence before entering a property. Failure to adhere to these guidelines can result in the evidence being deemed inadmissible in court.