Search warrants are generally not immediately put on public record; they are typically kept confidential while the investigation is active and the search is being executed to prevent the destruction of evidenceIf warrants are being served, then they should be docketed somewhere, even if it’s under seal.
. While warrants become public record after they are served, they can be sealed by a judge to protect ongoing investigations or privacy.
Key Details Regarding Search Warrant Records:
- Timing of Disclosure: Warrants usually become available for public inspection only after they have been executed (served) and, often, only after charges have been filed.
- Sealed Warrants: Courts can seal affidavits and warrants, keeping them out of the public domain, particularly if the information within them could compromise an investigation.
- Accessing Records: Once no longer sealed, search warrants, including supporting affidavits, become part of the court record.
- Warrant vs. Affidavit: While the warrant itself might be public, the supporting affidavit (which outlines the probable cause) is sometimes sealed for a longer period.
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