What is the primary focus of the exclusionary rule?

The primary focus of the exclusionary rule is to deter law enforcement from violating constitutional rights during the gathering of evidence. This rule operates under the principle that evidence obtained in violation of a person's Fourth Amendment rights—particularly concerning unreasonable searches and seizures—should not be admissible in court. The underlying intent is to discourage law enforcement from engaging in unlawful practices by making any illegally obtained evidence unusable in a judicial proceeding.

In this context, the exclusionary rule serves as a means of upholding the integrity of the judicial process and ensuring that constitutional protections are respected. By excluding improperly obtained evidence, the law seeks to promote accountability among law enforcement and protect citizens from potential abuse of power. While the protection of rights and prevention of coerced confessions are related issues, the primary emphasis of the exclusionary rule is squarely on the deterrent effect it aims to have on police conduct.