What is required to obtain a warrant under the Fourth Amendment?

To obtain a warrant under the Fourth Amendment, probable cause supported by oath or affirmation is essential. The Fourth Amendment protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures and establishes that a warrant may only be issued based on probable cause. This means that law enforcement must present sufficient facts or evidence indicating that a crime has likely been committed and that the search or seizure in question will likely yield relevant evidence.

This requirement ensures that warrants are not issued arbitrarily and helps to protect individual rights against unreasonable government intrusion. The support of the oath or affirmation signifies that the officer is presenting verified information, adding a layer of accountability and integrity to the process. Thus, only when these conditions are met can a warrant be granted, allowing for the lawful search or seizure to proceed.