What does the exclusionary rule prevent?

The exclusionary rule is a legal principle that prevents the government from using evidence obtained in violation of a person's constitutional rights, particularly those outlined in the Fourth Amendment, which protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. This means that if evidence is collected unconstitutionally, such as through illegal searches or seizures without a warrant or probable cause, it cannot be used in court against the individual.

This rule is designed to uphold the integrity of the legal process by discouraging law enforcement from engaging in unconstitutional practices. By ensuring that unlawfully obtained evidence is excluded from trials, the exclusionary rule aims to protect citizens' rights and promote justice within the judicial system. Therefore, the correct answer accurately reflects the purpose of the exclusionary rule in preventing illegally obtained evidence from impacting legal proceedings.