What happens if a search warrant expires and is not executed?

When a search warrant expires and is not executed, law enforcement officers must obtain a new warrant. A search warrant is valid only for a limited period, typically specified within the document itself. This time constraint is in place to ensure that the circumstances that justified the warrant still exist and that the rights of individuals are protected. Once this time period has lapsed, the warrant is no longer valid, and any evidence obtained from executing it would likely be inadmissible in court due to violations of the Fourth Amendment, which protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. Therefore, obtaining a new warrant is essential to ensure that any search conducted adheres to legal standards and that any evidence collected is legally obtained and admissible.