What can evidence obtained from an illegal search be used for in court?

The choice that states evidence obtained from an illegal search can be used to impeach the defendant’s credibility is grounded in certain legal standards. Generally, the exclusionary rule applies to evidence obtained in violation of the Fourth Amendment, meaning that such evidence cannot be used to prove a defendant's guilt in a prosecution.

However, there are specific circumstances where illegally obtained evidence may be utilized to challenge the credibility of a defendant or witnesses. If a defendant takes the stand and testifies, their prior inconsistent statements or conduct that may have been discovered through an illegal search could potentially be brought forward to cast doubt on their reliability and truthfulness.

This nuanced application recognizes the need to ensure that while the integrity of the judicial process and the protections against unlawful searches are upheld, courts must also have mechanisms to assess the credibility of individuals involved in legal proceedings. Therefore, using illegally obtained evidence for purposes of impeachment is allowed, while its use to establish guilt remains strictly prohibited.