Legal Question in Civil Rights Law in Oregon

Re: search warrants

Police often need anonymous tips to solve crimes, and the courts generally allow this, so long as they do some investigation. It depends upon whether the phone call gives them reasonably reliable information.

For example, allegations of child abuse are often anonymous, for obvious reasons. In this case, they may not even need a warrant to search, but when they apply for a warrant, the judge is supposed to inquire into whether probable cause exists suffficient to allow a sear. Even though these are often rubberstamped, at least there is some sort of review and record created for later challenge.

If you're in a situation which arose from an anonymous tip, make sure you and your attorney discuss challenging the warrant.