Search warrant

A search warrant is a formal authorisation to enter premises, inspect objects, seize evidence or access data. It usually requires a defined investigative purpose, sufficient suspicion, proportionality and limits on scope, time and manner. In common-law systems, warrants are central safeguards against unreasonable searches. Swiss law likewise regulates searches and seizures through legal bases, competent authorities and remedies, though terminology and procedures differ. Digital searches raise added issues of data volume, third-party privacy, professional secrecy and cross-border access.