Definition of search warrant

A search warrant is a written order, in the name of the state or municipality, signed by a judge or magistrate authorized by law to issue search warrants, directed to any law enforcement officer as defined by Rule 1.4(p), commanding him to search for personal property and, if found, to bring it before the issuing judge or magistrate. Committee Comments Sections 3.6 through 3.14 of this rule are procedures to guide the issuance and return of search warrants. Requirements of such United States Supreme Court cases as Illinois v. Gates, 462 U.S. 213, 103 S.Ct. 2317, 76 L.Ed.2d 527 (1983), are also included in the rules. City police officers can also execute search warrants. See Palmer v. State, 426 So.2d 950 (Ala.Crim.App.1983); Williams v. State, 505 So.2d 1252(Ala.Crim.App.1986); Hicks v. State, 437 So.2d 1344 (Ala.Crim.App.), aff’d, 437 So.2d 1346 (Ala.1983).