How does a full search differ from a limited search and an inventory?

A full search is distinct in that it requires either a warrant or a recognized exception to the warrant requirement under the Fourth Amendment. This distinction is crucial because it emphasizes the legal protections that govern searches conducted by law enforcement. Full searches generally involve a thorough examination of a person or their property and are subject to strict legal standards.

In contrast, a limited search, often based on reasonable suspicion, is less invasive and typically aims to ensure officer safety or to find specific evidence related to an imminent crime. Inventory searches, conducted on property in lawful possession (like vehicles impounded by law enforcement), serve a specific purpose: to account for items before storage and protect the police and the owner from false claims about lost or damaged property. Each of these types of searches has distinct legal foundations and purposes, highlighting the importance of adhering to constitutional guidelines.