Cell Phone Searches for Suspected Criminals

Did you know that, according to a Supreme Court ruling made a few months ago, there must be a warrant issued before a law enforcement agent can search your cell phone or electronic device?

These days, cell phones and other personal electronic devices can be a vital part of an individual’s life, the primary form of verbal and electronic communication with others. But because society has become so dependent on technology, those little machines can store information about you, your call logs, your text messages and activities – information that is valuable to police officers and prosecutors when it comes to arresting people and convicting them of crimes.

But in June, the Supreme Court came to a unanimous decision that protects the rights of individuals who are suspected of a crime. While law enforcement officials have the right to search certain materials on a suspect’s person or in his or her possession, they must have a warrant to conduct cell phone searches for suspected criminals to maintain those individuals’ constitutional right to privacy.

If you are questioned or arrested for an alleged crime, the officers cannot search your phone unless they can produce a warrant. But in cases where they break this protocol, an experienced Wisconsin criminal defense attorney can work to highlight this unlawful search in a way that can prove favorable to your case.

The Waukesha criminal defense lawyers of Huppertz & Powers, S.C. are committed to protecting your rights – including your right to privacy. We will carefully review every detail of your case to fight for your future and build the best defense possible.

To schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys, call 262-549-5979, fill out our criminal defense intake form or send us an email. The first meeting is on us.