The ____ amendment prohibits generally the search and seizure of any property unless a warrant has been issued.

• A. First
• B. Second
• C. Fourth
• D. Fifth

Answer: (C)

The Fourth Amendment guards against unreasonable searches and seizures and generally requires a warrant. A warrant must be issued by a judge and describe with particularity the place to be searched and the items to be seized, based on probable cause. This framework prevents broad, indiscriminate intrusions into private property by the government and provides judicial oversight. There are exceptions to the warrant requirement (such as consent or exigent circumstances), but the default rule is clear: searches without a warrant are typically not allowed. The other amendments protect different rights—free expression and religion (First), the right to bear arms (Second), and due process and protections against self-incrimination (Fifth)—not the warrant-based limitation on searches.