Which legal principle excludes evidence obtained from illegal searches or seizures?

The legal principle that excludes evidence obtained from illegal searches or seizures is the exclusionary rule. This rule is designed to deter law enforcement from violating individuals' Fourth Amendment rights by disallowing any evidence collected in violation of these rights from being used in court. The exclusionary rule plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the judicial process, ensuring that law enforcement adheres to legal standards when gathering evidence.

While the fruit of the poisonous tree doctrine specifically refers to the exclusion of evidence derived from illegally obtained evidence, the broader principle governing this matter is the exclusionary rule. The fruit of the poisonous tree doctrine builds upon the exclusionary rule by addressing not only the directly obtained evidence through illegal means but also any further evidence that may have been obtained as a result of that original illegal evidence.

This distinction is important in legal contexts as it underscores the foundational principle that all evidence gathered in violation of constitutional rights is inadmissible, thus ensuring a fair judicial process. Therefore, while the fruit of the poisonous tree doctrine is related and emphasizes the consequences of illegal searches, it is the exclusionary rule that is the overarching principle.