What does the exclusionary rule achieve?

The exclusionary rule is a legal principle that prevents the use of evidence in court that has been obtained in violation of a defendant's constitutional rights. More specifically, it aims to ensure that evidence obtained through unlawful means—such as illegal searches and seizures—cannot be used against an individual in a criminal trial. By doing so, the rule serves as a deterrent against law enforcement violating rights during the investigative process and promotes adherence to legal standards regarding the collection of evidence. This upholds the integrity of the judicial process and protects individuals from governmental overreach, thereby reinforcing the principle of fairness in legal proceedings. The purpose of the exclusionary rule is to maintain the balance between society's interest in law enforcement and the rights of the individual.