What does the Exclusionary Rule state about unlawfully obtained evidence?

The Exclusionary Rule is a legal principle that prohibits the use of evidence obtained in violation of a defendant's constitutional rights, particularly those outlined in the Fourth Amendment, which protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. By stating that unlawfully obtained evidence may not be used by the government, this rule serves to uphold the integrity of the judicial process and deter law enforcement from conducting illegal search and seizure activities.

The core purpose of the Exclusionary Rule is to ensure that evidence is collected in a manner that respects individuals' rights. When the government seeks to introduce evidence that was obtained unlawfully—meaning it was gathered without a warrant or probable cause—such evidence is typically inadmissible in court. This serves not only to protect the rights of individuals but also to maintain public confidence in the legal system.

In contrast, the other choices do not align with the principles or effects outlined by the Exclusionary Rule. The idea that unlawfully obtained evidence can be used if it proves a case undermines the very foundation of the rule. Similarly, the concept that such evidence must be reviewed by a judge before use is misleading, as the exclusionary nature is about preventing its use outright. Lastly, sharing unlawfully obtained evidence with defense attorneys does not address the fundamental