When applying for a search warrant, what must be done with the affidavit?

When applying for a search warrant, the affidavit must be signed in front of a Judge to establish its validity and uphold the legal requirements for obtaining a warrant. This process is crucial because the Judge needs to assess the information provided in the affidavit to determine whether probable cause exists. By signing in front of the Judge, the affiant (the person making the affidavit) affirms that the statements made are true to the best of their knowledge and belief, which enhances the credibility of the affidavit in a legal context.

The requirement for judicial oversight serves as a check on law enforcement authority, ensuring that search warrants are not issued without appropriate justification. This can help protect citizens’ Fourth Amendment rights against unreasonable searches and seizures. The Judge's role in this process is to objectively evaluate the evidence presented and make a determination based on facts rather than assumptions or unverified claims.