What are the requirements for a search warrant?

In Massachusetts, a search warrant is a court-issued document that gives police the authority to search a specific location for evidence of a crime. In order for the police to obtain a search warrant, they must go through a court process. First, the police must demonstrate to a judge that there is probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed and that evidence of that crime is likely to be found at the location they wish to search. This probable cause must be specific and based on facts such as witness testimony or physical evidence. Second, the police must explain to the judge what type of search they are seeking to do. This must include the type of place being searched (e.g. home, car) and the type of evidence being sought (e.g. drugs, guns). Finally, the police must list the address or other details of the location they are seeking to search. Once the judge is satisfied that the police have proven probable cause, they will issue a search warrant allowing the police to search the specified location for the specified evidence. The police must then adhere to the conditions of the search warrant when conducting the search.

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