Search Warrants — What You Need to Know
Being served with a search warrant is a serious and stressful event. It’s essential to act quickly and seek legal advice immediately to protect your rights. Our criminal law team at Parke Lawyers is experienced in handling search warrant matters, from preemptive strategy through to defending against unlawful searches or subsequent charges.
What Is a Search Warrant?
A search warrant is a court-issued order authorising police to enter premises and search for evidence linked to a suspected offence. Police may lawfully enter a property if:
- You give them permission; or
- They hold a valid search warrant; or
- There is an emergency (for example, imminent danger or where a person’s safety is at risk); or
- They have reasonable grounds to believe a person inside needs to be arrested or detained.
How to Respond If You Are Served a Search Warrant
If police serve you with a warrant, do the following:
- Carefully examine the warrant — it must state:
- The specific premises to be searched
- The date and time police may enter
- The items they are authorised to seize
- The offence that is under investigation
- Keep a copy of the warrant and any related documents.
- Record details: note the police officer’s name, time of attendance, what was said, and any items removed.
- Claim legal professional privilege if police request to inspect documents or communications with your lawyer — these are protected.
- Do not obstruct police — but you may verbally state your intention to seek legal advice.
How Parke Lawyers Can Assist You
We provide prompt, strategic legal support in search warrant matters, including:
- Assessing whether the warrant is lawful or has defects
- Challenging unlawful searches and seeking remedies
- Advising you through police interactions and ensuring your rights are respected
- Representing you in court and negotiating with prosecutors
- Supporting you if charges arise from the search
We also represent clients facing related legal challenges such as bail, criminal charges, and property confiscation.
Why Professional Advice Matters
Search warrants can touch on complex legal issues, including procedural safeguards, privacy rights, and admissibility of evidence. A warrant that is invalid or improperly executed can render seized evidence unusable — but only if challenged correctly.
At Parke Lawyers, we have proven experience handling these issues. We give you clear explanations of your options, firm representation, and confident advocacy at every stage.
Contact Parke Lawyers immediately if you have been served with a search warrant — your rights, freedom, and reputation may depend on timely legal assistance.
Your Criminal & Traffic Law Team
