The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated. The Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution protects Americans from random and arbitrary stops and searches.Read on to find out how this critical law can make a difference in your criminal case. There is no resulting broad principle, however, that the Fourth Amendment constrains federal officials wherever and against whomever they act. The government may not deprive a person of property without "due process of law. 48 On the other hand, the Court's solicitude for law enforcement objectives may tilt the balance in the other direction. The Fourteenth Amendment ushered in a new era of civil rights in America. This FindLaw article offers an overview of the Amendment. California Northern District Court, San Jose, CA, Open Until Filled. There's a lot leeway in the 4th amendment.