Legal Definitions - Suppression

Suppression is a legal term used in criminal cases. It means that evidence that was obtained illegally or in violation of the Constitution cannot be used in court. This is because of the exclusionary rule, which prohibits the use of such evidence.

For example, if the police search someone's home without a warrant or probable cause, any evidence they find during that search would be suppressed and cannot be used in court. Similarly, if the police coerce a confession out of a suspect without informing them of their rights, that confession would also be suppressed.

Suppression is important because it helps protect the rights of individuals and ensures that the justice system operates fairly. It prevents law enforcement from using illegal or unconstitutional methods to gather evidence and build a case against someone.