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Simple English definitions for legal terms
automobile exception
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A quick definition of automobile exception:
The automobile exception is a rule that says police can search a car without a warrant if they think evidence or illegal things might be moved or hidden before they can get a warrant. This is because cars can move quickly and it might be hard to get a warrant in time. The exception applies to all kinds of cars, even if they are parked. However, police still need a good reason to search a car and they can't search containers inside the car without a warrant unless they have a good reason to think there is something illegal inside.
A more thorough explanation:
The "automobile exception" is a rule that allows police officers to search a vehicle without a warrant in certain situations. This exception exists because vehicles are mobile and evidence or contraband can be easily removed before a warrant can be obtained.
For example, if a police officer pulls over a car for a traffic violation and sees drugs on the front seat, they can search the car without a warrant. This is because the drugs could be easily removed if the officer had to wait for a warrant.
The automobile exception applies to all types of vehicles, including parked motor homes. However, it is important to note that the exception is not absolute. If there is a locked container within the vehicle, such as a lockbox, the officer cannot search it without a warrant unless they have separate probable cause to believe that contraband is hidden inside.