This lesson provides guidance to Iowa law enforcement officers on the following topics: 

• What evidence is sufficient to establish probable cause for a search warrant?

• When may an officer search a car’s glove compartment for proof of the driver’s identity?

• Does a truck’s ball hitch that partially blocks the view of the truck’s license plate violate Iowa Code section 321.38 and provide an officer with probable cause to justify a traffic stop?

• May an officer ever enter a hotel room at the request of hotel management without violating the Fourth Amendment rights of persons inside the room?

• What does a plaintiff need to show to succeed in a lawsuit against an officer for malicious prosecution?

• Does a Miranda violation support a claim for money damages against a police officer under 42 United States Code section 1983?