Search

In Criminal Law. An examination of a man's house, premises, or person, for the purpose of discovering stolen or contraband goods, or proof of his guilt in relation to some crime or misdemeanor of which he is accused. The constitution of the United States (Amend, art. 4) protects the people from unreasonable searches and seizures.

3 Story, Const. § 1895; Rawle, Const, c. 10, p. 127; 10 Johns. (N. Y.) 263; 11 Johns. (N. Y.) 500; 1 U. S. St. at Large, 651; 3 Cranch (U. S.) 447.

In Practice. An examination made in the proper lien office for mortgages, liena, judgments, or other incumbrances against real estate. The certificate given by the officer as to the result of such examination is also called a "search." Conveyancers and others who cause searches to be made ought to be very careful that they should be correct with regard to the time during which the person against whom the search has been made owned the premises, to the property searched against,