Search warrants are documents signed by judges that authorize police to search for objects at a location during a specific time frame. These warrants are obtained by convincing a judge that there is probable cause that evidence of a crime will be found on the premises. If a search warrant is issued under your name or for your premises, you are entitled to a copy of the warrant, if you make the request. You will not automatically receive a warrant copy if you do not ask for it.
Ask for identification when an officer shows up to your house with a search warrant. Verify that he is the agent in charge.
Request your copy of the search warrant, and, if desired, a copy of the original affidavit. Authorities can only have the warrant on the premises, but the officer should present you with a copy before he is allowed to search the premises.
Read More: Legal Definition of a Stale Search Warrant
Go to the clerk at the court that issued the warrant if you need a copy. Be sure to bring your driver's license or picture identification, and your birth certificate in case it is needed to identify you.
Present the proper identification to the clerk and request a copy of the court-ordered search warrant along with any sworn information used against you to obtain the warrant. You might need to pay a small fee to receive the warrant or report.
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Writer Bio
Abaigeal Quinn works as an international entertainment broker in the United States. She is a former news editor and insurance agent who began writing for a daily newspaper in 1995.