Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam (PACE) Practice Exam

What does the exclusionary rule accomplish in legal proceedings?

1. It allows for the admittance of all evidence regardless of how it was obtained

2. It prevents the use of illegally obtained evidence in trials

3. It mandates the review of evidence by multiple judges

4. It ensures that all witnesses are credible before being called

The correct answer is: It prevents the use of illegally obtained evidence in trials

The exclusionary rule serves a critical function in legal proceedings by preventing the introduction of evidence that has been obtained in violation of a defendant's constitutional rights, particularly the Fourth Amendment, which protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. When evidence is collected improperly, such as without a valid warrant or probable cause, the exclusionary rule ensures that this evidence cannot be used in court to support a prosecution's case. This upholds the integrity of the judicial process and deters law enforcement from engaging in unlawful practices, thereby safeguarding individuals' rights. The other options do not accurately reflect the role of the exclusionary rule. The first option suggests that all evidence can be admitted regardless of how it was obtained, which contradicts the purpose of the rule. The third option implies a procedure for multiple judges to review evidence, which does not pertain to the exclusionary rule. The fourth option discusses the credibility of witnesses, which is not related to how evidence is acquired or admitted in criminal proceedings. Hence, the role of the exclusionary rule is fundamentally about ensuring that only legally obtained evidence is considered in a trial, thereby reinforcing constitutional protections.