What is the primary purpose of a search warrant?

The primary purpose of a search warrant is to authorize law enforcement to search and seize property. A search warrant is a legal document issued by a judge or magistrate that provides law enforcement officers with permission to search a specific location and seize designated items related to a criminal investigation. The issuance of a search warrant is based on probable cause, which means that there is a reasonable basis for believing that evidence of a crime may be found in the specified location.

This process helps to balance the need for law enforcement to investigate crimes with the protection of individuals' rights against unreasonable searches and seizures as guaranteed by the Fourth Amendment of the United States Constitution. By requiring a warrant, it ensures that searches are conducted legally and with appropriate oversight.

In contrast, while protecting individual rights is important within the context of the warrant process, it is not the primary function of the warrant itself. Serving legal documents to individuals pertains to civil procedures rather than search warrants. Finally, collecting evidence for a civil case does not fall under the scope of a search warrant, which is specifically designed for criminal cases.