What must an officer do to obtain a search warrant?

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A search warrant must be based on probable cause presented in a sworn statement and approved by a judge or magistrate. To obtain one, an officer prepares an affidavit that lays out the facts and evidence supporting the belief that evidence or contraband will be found in a specific place. This statement is sworn under oath, giving it legal weight. The affidavit is then reviewed by a neutral judge or magistrate, who determines whether probable cause exists and, if so, issues a warrant describing the place to be searched and the items to be seized. Verbal supervisor approval, posting a sign for consent, or simply writing a memo to a clerk do not provide the required probable cause or the judicial authorization needed for a warrant.