What is the "exclusionary rule" in legal terms?

The exclusionary rule is a legal principle that prohibits the use of evidence in court that has been obtained in violation of a defendant's constitutional rights, particularly those outlined in the Fourth Amendment, which guards against unreasonable searches and seizures. This rule serves to deter law enforcement from conducting illegal searches and ensures that the judicial process remains fair and just.

By excluding illegally obtained evidence, the rule reinforces the integrity of the legal system and upholds the rights of individuals against government overreach. Its application may lead to a situation where crucial evidence is deemed inadmissible during a trial if it is found to have been collected unlawfully. This mechanism not only promotes adherence to the law by law enforcement officials but also protects the rights of individuals facing legal proceedings.