What does the Fourth Amendment require of law enforcement before a search?

The Fourth Amendment of the United States Constitution provides a crucial protection against unreasonable searches and seizures by requiring law enforcement to obtain a warrant based on probable cause before conducting a search. This means that police must demonstrate to a judge or magistrate that they have sufficient evidence to justify the intrusion into an individual's privacy or property. The requirement for a warrant is a fundamental check on government power, ensuring that citizens' rights are protected and that law enforcement acts within the legal framework established by the Constitution. This process helps prevent arbitrary or abusive searches and upholds the principle of due process.