What is the primary purpose of the exclusionary rule in criminal trials?

The primary purpose of the exclusionary rule in criminal trials is to maintain the integrity of constitutional protections. This legal principle prevents evidence obtained in violation of a defendant's constitutional rights from being used in court. The rule serves as a means of upholding the Fourth Amendment, which guards against unreasonable searches and seizures, as well as the Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination. By excluding such improperly obtained evidence, the rule emphasizes the importance of adhering to constitutional standards and helps to deter law enforcement from engaging in unlawful practices. This preservation of constitutional integrity ultimately aims to uphold the belief in fair trial rights and protect individuals from governmental overreach.