Police Searched Your Home in Tampa With a Warrant: What Generally Happens Next
Few things are as unsettling as officers arriving at your home with a search warrant. Whether it happened early in the morning or while you were away, it’s normal to have questions about what it means and what comes next. This post explains, in general terms, how these situations usually unfold in Tampa and Hillsborough County. Every case is different, though, and the best way to get answers about your situation is to call Attorney Ron Frey at (813) 775-2276 or toll-free (844) 766-3739. The consultation is free and confidential.
What a Search Warrant Generally Is
A search warrant is generally a court order, signed by a judge, that allows law enforcement to search a specific place for specific items. It does not by itself mean that anyone has been charged with a crime. Sometimes an arrest happens during the search, and sometimes no one is arrested at all and the investigation continues afterward.
What Generally Happens During the Search
Officers executing a warrant generally secure the home first, which can mean asking everyone to step outside or stay in one area. They then search for the items listed in the warrant and may take property, such as phones, computers, papers, or other items. People in the home may be asked questions while this happens. As a general matter, Attorney Ron Frey advises that a person in this situation stay calm, not physically interfere with the search, and exercise the right to remain silent until they have spoken with an attorney.
The Paperwork Left Behind
Officers generally leave a copy of the warrant and a list of what was taken, often called an inventory or receipt. It is a good idea to keep both somewhere safe, because they can be important later. If no paperwork was left, or you aren’t sure what you received, Attorney Ron Frey can help you sort that out.
What Can Happen After a Search
After a search, a case can go in different directions. Sometimes charges are filed quickly, sometimes the investigation continues for weeks or months while evidence is reviewed, and sometimes no charges are filed at all. Some searches involve local agencies and others involve federal agents, and the path can look different depending on who is investigating. Not knowing where things stand is often the hardest part, and it’s one of the main reasons people call Attorney Ron Frey after a search.
When Phones and Computers Are Taken
Many searches today focus on phones, computers, and other devices. Reviewing that kind of evidence can take time, so a case involving devices may move slowly at first. Drawing on his experience with many computer and internet cases, Attorney Ron Frey looks closely at how a search was carried out and what the warrant actually allowed. (For more, see our Computer & Internet Crimes page.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a search warrant mean I’m going to be arrested? Not necessarily. A warrant generally allows a search. It is not a charge, and some searches don’t lead to an arrest.
Can I get my property back? Sometimes, depending on the case and what was taken. An attorney can generally look into whether and how property can be returned.
Should I talk to the detectives to clear things up? As a general matter, Attorney Ron Frey advises speaking with an attorney before making any statement.
What if federal agents did the search? Federal investigations can follow a different path. See our page on the Middle District of Florida.
Talk With Attorney Ron Frey
Attorney Ron Frey has over 20 years of experience defending people accused of crimes in Hillsborough County, in courts across Florida, and in federal court. These laws and procedures change often, so it is a good idea to talk with an attorney about the details of your situation. No lawyer can promise a result, but you should understand where you stand before you make decisions. Please call first, at (813) 775-2276 or toll-free (844) 766-3739. The consultation is free and confidential.
This page is for general information only. It is not legal advice, and reading it or contacting The Frey Law Firm, LLC does not create an attorney-client relationship.