Which of the following is NOT a type of lawful seizure?

The identification of "Search and seizure without a warrant" as the answer highlights a fundamental principle of lawful seizures: the requirement of a warrant or sufficient justification for the seizure of property. Generally, the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution protects against unreasonable searches and seizures, establishing that law enforcement must have probable cause in most circumstances before seizing an individual or their property.

In enforcement contexts, certain exceptions allow for lawful seizures without a warrant, such as exigent circumstances or consent. However, these exceptions are specifically defined and do not encompass arbitrary or unjustified actions. A seizure that lacks any suspicion—be it reasonable or probable—would not satisfy the constitutional thresholds that govern lawful actions by authorities.

This rationale underscores the necessity of justification in all lawful seizures, reinforcing the premise that without such justification, the act can be considered unlawful. Other options presented, such as temporary seizures based on reasonable suspicion and those based on probable cause, are recognized legal standards that delineate when seizures can appropriately occur. Temporary seizures based on zero suspicion stand in stark contrast as they disregard the foundational need for any form of justifiable cause.