The police, in many countries, need a court order to carry out certain actions, such as the following:
Home Search
The police cannot enter a residence without the owner’s consent, unless they have a court order from a judge authorizing the search.
This is necessary to protect citizens’ privacy and prevent abuse.
Interception of Communications
To intercept or spy on communications (such as phone calls, emails, or text messages), a judicial order is required to justify the intervention, within the framework of investigations into serious crimes.
Preventive Detention
Although the police can arrest someone caught in flagrante delicto, for preventive detention (when the person has not been caught committing a crime), judicial authorization is needed, usually after a hearing or preliminary investigation.
Search of Objects or Vehicles
To search a vehicle or a property that is not a home, the police also need a court order, except in exceptional situations where urgency or the owner’s consent justifies it.
Access to Bank Accounts or Financial Information
In some cases, to obtain confidential information about bank accounts or transactions, the police must submit a judicial request and obtain an order from a judge.
Long-Term Surveillance or Monitoring
In cases where extended surveillance is planned, such as the use of hidden cameras or constant tracking, judicial authorization is required.
Arrest Warrant
When a person is wanted for a specific crime, the police need an arrest warrant issued by a judge to detain that person, unless they are caught in flagrante delicto.
📌 These procedures are established to balance the needs of investigation with the protection of citizens’ fundamental rights. In general, judicial intervention is required to ensure that police actions are legal and respect human rights.
