Being accused of any type of crime can be terrifying for a resident of Florida. If you’re suddenly met with law enforcement officials with a search warrant at your home, it’s important to know what to do.
What to do when officers come with a search warrant
If law enforcement officers come to your home requesting that you open the door, you should ask if they have a search warrant if they don’t initially say they have one. If they immediately tell you they have a warrant, you will have to open the door. However, if your home has a peephole, you can request that they show you the warrant beforehand. This is important as officers can say they have a search warrant when they really don’t have one. Answering the door is advised due to it being better than the alternative of officers breaking in forcefully.
Regardless of how you feel when the officers present the search warrant to you, it’s important to remain level-headed. Don’t be too emotional or angry. Try to stay calm and cooperative with the officers. At the same time, you are under no obligation to give consent to the search. State your rights to the law enforcement officers and remain firm that you object to the situation. Avoid being overly aggressive as it can work against you.
If an officer steps out of line and does anything inappropriate, such as using unnecessary physical force, make note of it so that you can make a complaint later on. This would constitute a violation of your rights. You can also record the search with your smartphone or home security system.
If you believe your rights have been violated, hold the officers responsible for the violation accountable. Your freedom might depend on it if you end up being accused of a crime after the search.
