Searches, seizures and warrants
Official text rightpowerlimitif conditionlegal term
Every subject has a right to be secure from all unreasonable searches, and seizures, of his person, his houses, his papers, and all his possessions. All warrants, therefore, are contrary to this right, if the cause or foundation of them be not previously supported by oath or ; and if the order in the warrant to a civil officer, to make search in suspected places, or to arrest one or more suspected persons, or to seize their property, be not accompanied with a special designation of the persons or objects of search, arrest, or seizure: and no warrant ought to be issued but in cases, and with the formalities prescribed by the laws. .
Note (Massachusetts Legislature): [See Amendments, Art. XLVIII, The Initiative, II, sec. 2]
Simplified explanation
Every subject has a right to be secure from unreasonable searches and seizures. Warrants are contrary to this right unless supported by oath or affirmation and specially designating the persons or objects, and no warrant ought to be issued except in cases and with formalities the laws prescribe.