If the police have a search warrant for your property, you should read it carefully to verify its validity before allowing them to enter. While the police can give you a reasonable amount of time to review the warrant and ask for clarification when needed, you can’t unreasonably delay the search.
Therefore, you need to know the information to look for on a search warrant and the right questions to ask.
Below are three details to pay attention to:
1. Signature
A search warrant is valid when signed by a judge or district court magistrate, who can sign it from any location in the state.
2. Address
Although rare, a search warrant can have an inaccurate address. Thus, you need to check the address included and the description of the location to be searched.
3. Items to be searched for
Review the items to be searched for in your property to determine if they are proper subjects for seizure.
In Michigan, the items that can be searched for and seized are:
- Stolen or embezzled property
- Property that is or has been used to commit a crime
- Property possessed, controlled or used in violation of a law in the state
- Evidence of crime or criminal conduct
- Contraband
- The body of a human or animal that may be a victim of a crime
- The object of a search warrant under another law of the state providing for the search warrant
You should ask adequate questions regarding the items listed on the search warrant to ensure you understand everything.
A mistake related to a search warrant can be committed on your property. If you believe your rights have been violated, consider legal guidance to understand the best way to fight for your rights.