Which amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects against unreasonable searches and seizures?

The Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution is specifically designed to protect individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures by the government. It establishes the legal standard that law enforcement must have probable cause and, in most cases, a warrant supported by oath or affirmation before conducting searches or seizing property. This amendment is crucial in safeguarding citizens’ privacy and property rights, ensuring that they are not subjected to arbitrary or intrusive actions by the state.

In contrast, the other amendments listed focus on different aspects of individual rights. The First Amendment protects freedoms of speech, religion, and assembly; the Eighth Amendment addresses issues related to bail, fines, and cruel and unusual punishment; while the Sixth Amendment guarantees the rights of criminal defendants, such as the right to a fair trial and legal counsel. None of these amendments pertain directly to the issue of searches and seizures, which is the core focus of the Fourth Amendment.