Adams County Public Records /Adams County Warrant Search

Adams County Warrant Search

How To Check for Warrants in Adams County in 2026

AdamsWARecords.us provides access to publicly available information related to warrant records in Adams County, Washington. Members of the public may use this resource to search for records that may include active arrest warrants, bench warrants, court case filings, and related criminal justice data. Information retrieved through this site is provided for reference purposes and may not reflect the most current official records.

Members of the public may search for warrant records through the following official resources:

Adams County Sheriff's Office public records portal — provides access to inmate information, warrant searches, and case files
Washington State Courts Name and Case Search — allows name-based searches of court case records statewide
Odyssey Portal (Washington Courts) — provides access to court documents with elevated access available through the County Clerk
Washington State Department of Corrections Warrant Search — publishes warrant information for individuals under DOC supervision

To search online, members of the public may navigate to the Washington State Courts Name and Case Search, enter the subject's full legal name, and review any associated case records. The Odyssey Portal requires registration and, for elevated document access, authorization through the Adams County Clerk's Office. The DOC warrant search is available without registration and is updated to support public safety.

Why Check for Warrants:

Avoid unexpected arrest during a routine traffic stop or other law enforcement encounter
Resolve outstanding legal obligations proactively before they compound
Clear up misunderstandings resulting from clerical errors or mistaken identity
Handle pending legal matters responsibly and in a timely manner
Obtain peace of mind regarding one's standing with the court

Warning Signs You May Have a Warrant:

Missed a scheduled court appearance
Failed to pay court-ordered fines or fees
Violated the terms of probation or supervised release
Aware of pending criminal charges that have not been resolved
A traffic stop resulted in release with a warning rather than a citation
Received a notice to appear and did not comply

Methods to Check for Warrants:

1. Online Warrant Search

The Adams County Sheriff's Office maintains public records resources that members of the public may use to search for active warrants. The Washington State Courts Name and Case Search allows searches by name and returns case-level information, including warrant status. These tools are free to access, updated on a regular basis, and display active warrant information including charges and bond amounts.

2. Call Law Enforcement

Members of the public may contact the Adams County Sheriff's Office by telephone to inquire about warrant status. The non-emergency line should be used for this purpose — members of the public should not call 911 for warrant inquiries. When calling, the inquiring party should be prepared to provide:

Full legal name
Date of birth
Social Security number (in some cases)

Anonymous inquiries may not be possible, and individuals should be aware that a confirmed warrant may prompt law enforcement action.

Adams County Sheriff's Office 50 S. Juniper Street
Ritzville, WA 99169
Phone: (509) 659-1122
Adams County Sheriff's Office

3. Visit Sheriff's Office or Police Department

Members of the public may appear in person at the Adams County Sheriff's Office to request a warrant check at the records window or front desk. A valid government-issued photo identification should be presented. Individuals who appear in person and are found to have an active warrant may be subject to immediate arrest, as deputies are obligated to execute outstanding warrants upon confirmation.

Adams County Sheriff's Office 50 S. Juniper Street
Ritzville, WA 99169
Phone: (509) 659-1122
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM
Adams County Sheriff's Office

4. Contact the Court

The Adams County Superior Court Clerk's Office maintains case records that include warrant status information. Members of the public may contact the Clerk's Office to inquire about bench warrants associated with specific case numbers or party names. Court staff will not initiate an arrest, but any active warrant remains in effect.

Adams County Superior Court Clerk 210 W. Broadway Avenue
Ritzville, WA 99169
Phone: (509) 659-3257
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM

5. Hire an Attorney

Retaining an attorney is the safest method for individuals who suspect an active warrant may exist in their name. Communications between an attorney and client are protected by attorney-client privilege. An attorney may verify warrant status, explain the nature of the charges, and arrange a voluntary surrender if a warrant is confirmed. The Washington State Bar Association provides a lawyer referral service for members of the public seeking legal counsel.

6. Third-Party Background Check (Use Caution)

Commercial background check services may display warrant information; however, the accuracy and currency of such data varies. These services charge fees for information that is available at no cost through official government sources. Members of the public are advised to verify any results obtained through commercial services against official county and state databases.

What Information You'll Need:

Full legal name
Any aliases or former names
Date of birth
Social Security number (helpful but not always required)
Previous addresses in Adams County

Important Warnings:

Risk of Immediate Arrest:

Checking warrant status in person may result in immediate arrest if a warrant is confirmed
Sheriff's deputies are legally obligated to execute active warrants upon confirmation
Individuals cannot "check and leave" if a warrant is found during an in-person inquiry
Consulting an attorney prior to any in-person inquiry is strongly advisable

Don't Delay:

Warrants do not expire and remain active until executed or recalled by the court
Outstanding warrants may compound with additional charges, including failure to appear
A routine traffic stop can result in arrest if an active warrant is discovered
Proactive resolution is preferable to an unplanned arrest

What NOT to Do:

Do not ignore a possible warrant
Do not attempt to flee or conceal one's whereabouts from law enforcement
Do not provide false information to law enforcement officers
Do not resist if placed under arrest
Do not assume a warrant will expire or be dismissed without action

What Is a Search Warrant in Adams County?

A search warrant is a legal document issued by a neutral judicial officer that authorizes law enforcement to search a specific location and seize designated items. In Adams County, Washington, search warrants are governed by the Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution, which protects individuals against unreasonable searches and seizures, and by Article I, Section 7 of the Washington State Constitution, which provides independent and robust privacy protections beyond the federal standard.

Purpose of Search Warrants:

Protect the privacy rights of individuals against arbitrary government intrusion
Prevent unreasonable searches by requiring judicial authorization
Balance the legitimate needs of law enforcement with individual constitutional rights
Ensure judicial oversight of police investigative actions
Provide a lawful mechanism for gathering evidence in criminal investigations

Constitutional Basis:

The Fourth Amendment requires that warrants be supported by probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation, and must particularly describe the place to be searched and the persons or things to be seized. Washington's constitution provides an independent basis for privacy protections that Washington courts have interpreted as affording greater rights than the federal minimum.

Legal Requirements:

Under RCW 10.79.040, a search warrant may be issued only upon a showing of probable cause supported by affidavit. The affidavit must establish a nexus between the location to be searched and the evidence sought. The warrant must describe with particularity the premises to be searched and the items to be seized. Washington law requires that search warrants be executed within a specified period following issuance.

When Search Warrants Are Used:

Criminal investigations involving drug offenses, theft, or violent crimes
White-collar crime investigations requiring access to financial records
Seizure of digital evidence, including computers and mobile devices
Recovery of contraband or stolen property
Investigations involving weapons offenses

Difference from Other Warrants:

Search warrant: Authorizes law enforcement to search a specific location and seize designated property
Arrest warrant: Authorizes law enforcement to take a specific person into custody
Bench warrant: A court order issued for failure to comply with a court directive, such as a missed appearance
These warrant types are distinct and are not interchangeable

Are Warrants Public Records in Adams County?

Warrants in Adams County are subject to Washington's Public Records Act, codified at RCW 42.56, which establishes a broad presumption of public access to government records. Whether a specific warrant is accessible to the public depends on its type and the stage of the associated proceeding.

When Warrants Become Public:

Search warrants are treated differently depending on whether they have been executed. Prior to execution, a search warrant is sealed to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation, prevent the destruction of evidence, and preserve the element of surprise. After execution, the warrant, supporting affidavit, and inventory of seized items become part of the public court record and are accessible through the Adams County Superior Court Clerk's Office or the Washington Courts Odyssey Portal.

Arrest warrants that are currently active are accessible to the public through law enforcement databases and the court case search system. The subject's name, charges, bond amount, and issuing court are visible. After an arrest is made, the warrant remains part of the public court file.

Exceptions and Sealed Warrants:

Certain warrants may remain sealed or partially redacted under Washington law. These include:

Warrants related to ongoing investigations where disclosure would compromise law enforcement operations
Grand jury proceedings
Cases involving national security considerations
Matters involving confidential informants or sensitive investigative techniques
Juvenile cases, which are subject to separate confidentiality provisions

The duration of sealing is determined by the presiding judge and may extend for months or years. Most warrants eventually become accessible to the public, though portions containing confidential informant identities or investigative techniques may be permanently redacted.

What's Publicly Available:

Active arrest warrant information through the Sheriff's Office and court case search
Executed search warrant documents filed with the court
Probable cause affidavits (after execution)
Inventory of items seized pursuant to a search warrant
Court case files that include warrant-related documents

What's Restricted:

Unexecuted search warrants
Sealed investigative warrants
Confidential informant information
Certain law enforcement techniques described in affidavits
Grand jury materials

How Much Does It Cost to Get Warrant Records in Adams County?

The cost to obtain warrant records in Adams County depends on the requesting office and the format of the records sought. Under Washington's Public Records Act, RCW 42.56.120, agencies may charge fees for providing copies of public records, but inspection of records is available at no charge.

Standard Fee Schedule:

Record Type	Fee
Photocopies (black and white, letter/legal)	$0.15 per page
Photocopies (color)	$0.15 per page (standard agency rate)
Electronic records (scanned to email/CD)	Actual cost of scanning
Certified copies (court records)	Varies by court; contact Clerk's Office
Search fee	No charge for standard public records requests

Inspection of records: No fee is charged for members of the public who wish to inspect records in person at the agency's office
Electronic copies: Agencies may charge the actual cost of scanning documents or transmitting electronic files
Certified copies: The Adams County Superior Court Clerk charges a separate certification fee; members of the public should contact the Clerk's Office directly for the current schedule
Payment methods: Accepted payment methods at the Sheriff's Office and Clerk's Office include cash, check, and money order; members of the public should confirm accepted methods prior to submitting a request

Fee Waivers:

Washington law does not mandate a blanket fee waiver provision, but agencies retain discretion to waive fees in certain circumstances. Members of the public who believe a fee waiver is warranted may submit a written request explaining the basis for the waiver.

What Is Available at No Cost:

Online inspection of case records through the Washington State Courts Name and Case Search
Online warrant searches through the Adams County Sheriff's Office public records portal
Online warrant searches through the Washington State Department of Corrections
In-person inspection of public records at the issuing agency

What Types of Warrants in Adams County

Adams County courts and law enforcement agencies issue several distinct categories of warrants, each serving a specific legal purpose under Washington law.

1. Arrest Warrants

An arrest warrant is a court order authorizing law enforcement to take a named individual into custody based on a finding of probable cause that the person has committed a criminal offense. Arrest warrants are issued by Superior Court judges or district court judges and remain active until the subject is arrested or the warrant is recalled by the court.

Arrest warrants are issued in the following circumstances:

Felony charges have been filed and the suspect is not in custody
A grand jury has returned an indictment
A suspect presents a flight risk prior to formal charging
Serious misdemeanor charges have been filed

The warrant contains the subject's name and physical description, the specific charges and statute violations, the bond amount, the name of the issuing court and judge, and any special cautions such as armed and dangerous designations.

Upon execution, law enforcement locates the subject, effects the arrest at any location within the state, transports the subject to the county jail for booking and processing, and schedules a first appearance hearing before the court.

2. Bench Warrants

A bench warrant is issued by a judge directly from the bench when a party fails to comply with a court order. Bench warrants are among the most common warrant types in Adams County and are issued for the following reasons:

Failure to appear at a scheduled court hearing
Failure to pay court-ordered fines or costs
Violation of probation terms
Contempt of court
Failure to complete court-ordered community service
Non-compliance with other court directives

Bench warrants differ from arrest warrants in that they arise from court-related violations rather than new criminal conduct. Bond amounts associated with bench warrants are determined by the issuing judge and may be lower than those set for arrest warrants. In some cases, an attorney may file a motion to recall a bench warrant if the underlying issue is resolved promptly.

Members of the public seeking to address a bench warrant may contact the Adams County Superior Court Clerk at (509) 659-3257 to obtain case information and determine the appropriate steps for resolution.

3. Search Warrants

A search warrant authorizes law enforcement to enter and search a specifically described location and to seize items identified in the warrant. As noted above, search warrants must satisfy the probable cause and particularity requirements of both the Fourth Amendment and RCW 10.79.040. Search warrants in Washington are subject to a time limitation and must be executed within ten days of issuance.

Locations subject to search warrants include residences, vehicles, businesses, storage units, electronic devices, and financial records. Items that may be seized include contraband, stolen property, weapons, documents, digital evidence, and illegal substances.

4. No-Knock Warrants

A no-knock warrant is a specialized form of search warrant that authorizes law enforcement to enter a premises without prior announcement. These warrants are subject to a heightened standard of judicial review and are issued only when there is a specific, articulable basis to believe that announcement would result in the destruction of evidence, endanger officers, or create other exigent circumstances. Washington law imposes documentation requirements and additional judicial oversight for no-knock authorizations.

5. Governor's Warrants (Extradition)

A governor's warrant is issued by the Governor of Washington to authorize the arrest and extradition of a fugitive who is wanted in another state. The process is governed by the Uniform Criminal Extradition Act, adopted in Washington. Upon receipt of a formal extradition request from the demanding state, the Washington Governor may issue a governor's warrant. The subject may challenge extradition or waive the process and consent to transfer to the requesting state.

6. Capias Warrants (Civil Contempt)

A capias warrant is issued in civil proceedings, most commonly in matters involving failure to pay court-ordered child support or other civil contempt situations. Although arising from non-criminal proceedings, a capias warrant authorizes the arrest of the subject. Release is typically conditioned on payment of a specified purge amount.

7. Material Witness Warrants

A material witness warrant may be issued to compel the appearance of a witness who has failed to comply with a subpoena. These warrants are issued infrequently and are reserved for situations in which a witness's testimony is essential to a proceeding and the witness is actively avoiding service.

Traffic Warrants:

Traffic warrants are issued for failure to appear on traffic citations, unpaid traffic fines, or suspended license violations. Bond amounts associated with traffic warrants are lower than those for criminal warrants, and these matters can be resolved relatively quickly through the appropriate court.

Probation and Parole Violation Warrants:

Warrants for probation or parole violations are issued upon application by a supervising officer or the Washington State Department of Corrections. These warrants may carry no bond or a high bond amount and require a hearing before a judge to determine whether a violation occurred and what sanctions are appropriate.

Federal Warrants:

Federal warrants are issued by United States District Court judges and magistrate judges and are separate from county-level warrants. Federal warrants are enforced by federal agencies including the FBI, DEA, ATF, and U.S. Marshals Service. Federal warrant information is not contained in county databases and must be verified through federal channels.

What Warrants in Adams County Contain

All warrants issued in Adams County contain standard identifying and legal information, with additional sections specific to the type of warrant.

Header Information:

Court seal and full name of the issuing court
The phrase "In the Name of the State of Washington"
Case number and court division
Name of the issuing judge
Warrant number and issue date

Subject Identification:

Full legal name and any known aliases
Date of birth
Physical description including height, weight, race, eye color, hair color, and identifying marks
Last known address
Driver's license number and Social Security number (where applicable)

Legal Authority:

Citation to applicable Washington statute
Command directed to any law enforcement officer in the State of Washington
Statement of the court's jurisdiction

Arrest Warrant — Charges Section:

Specific criminal offense(s) charged
Statute number(s) violated
Degree of offense (felony class or misdemeanor level)
Number of counts and date of alleged offense
Bond amount and type (cash, surety, personal recognizance, or no bond)
Conditions of release and any special restrictions
Special cautions (armed, dangerous, or flight risk designations)

Search Warrant — Premises and Items:

Complete address and physical description of the location to be searched
Specific description of items to be seized, organized by category
Probable cause affidavit detailing the officer's investigation, informant information (which may be redacted), surveillance results, and the nexus between the location and the alleged criminal activity
Date of issuance and expiration date (warrants in Washington must be executed within ten days)
Time-of-day restrictions and authorization for nighttime service where applicable
Return requirements, including an inventory of items seized and the date and time of execution

Bench Warrant — Court Order Violation:

Identification of the court order that was violated
Original case number and charges
Court date that was missed or obligation that was not fulfilled
Bond amount and conditions for release
Instructions for bringing the subject before the court

Judge's Signature and Seal: All warrants require the original or electronic signature of the issuing judge, the court seal, the date of signing, and the judge's printed name. Washington courts permit electronic warrants (e-warrants) in certain circumstances, which carry the same legal authority as paper warrants.

Confidential Portions: Portions of warrants that may be sealed or redacted include confidential informant identities, descriptions of investigative techniques, witness addresses, and details of ongoing investigations.

What Is NOT Typically Contained in Warrants:

Complete police investigation reports
All witness statements
Defendant's statements or admissions
Law enforcement strategy or tactical information
Unrelated case information

Who Issues Warrants in Adams County

The authority to issue warrants in Adams County is vested exclusively in judicial officers, consistent with the Fourth Amendment's requirement of a neutral and detached magistrate. Law enforcement officers and prosecutors do not have independent authority to issue warrants.

Judges and Courts with Authority:

1. Adams County Superior Court

The Adams County Superior Court is the court of general jurisdiction in Adams County and has full authority to issue all categories of warrants, including felony arrest warrants, search warrants, bench warrants, and governor's warrants.

Adams County Superior Court 210 W. Broadway Avenue
Ritzville, WA 99169
Phone: (509) 659-3257
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM

2. Adams County District Court

The Adams County District Court has jurisdiction over misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor offenses, traffic matters, and civil cases within its jurisdictional limits. District court judges may issue arrest warrants, bench warrants, and search warrants in matters within their jurisdiction.

Adams County District Court 210 W. Broadway Avenue
Ritzville, WA 99169
Phone: (509) 659-3257
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM

3. Court Commissioners and Magistrates

Court commissioners in Washington are appointed judicial officers with authority to issue initial arrest warrants, search warrants, and bench warrants, and to set bond amounts. Commissioners are available to review warrant applications outside of regular court hours to address urgent law enforcement needs.

Who Requests Warrants:

Adams County Sheriff's Office: Sheriff's deputies conduct criminal investigations, prepare sworn affidavits establishing probable cause, and present warrant applications to the appropriate judicial officer. The Adams County Sheriff's Office is the primary law enforcement agency responsible for warrant execution in unincorporated Adams County.

Adams County Prosecutor's Office: The Adams County Prosecutor reviews investigations, determines charges, and requests arrest warrants in felony matters. The Prosecutor's Office also presents evidence to grand juries in appropriate cases.

Adams County Prosecutor's Office 210 W. Broadway Avenue
Ritzville, WA 99169
Phone: (509) 659-3251
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM

The Warrant Issuance Process:

Investigation: Law enforcement gathers evidence, interviews witnesses, and documents findings sufficient to establish probable cause.
Affidavit Preparation: The investigating officer prepares a sworn affidavit detailing the facts supporting probable cause, the specific violations alleged, and the evidence or suspect sought.
Presentation to Judge: The officer or prosecutor presents the affidavit to a judge or court commissioner, either in person or through an electronic warrant system.
Judicial Review: The judge independently assesses whether probable cause exists, reviews constitutional requirements, and ensures the particularity requirement is satisfied.
Warrant Signed or Denied: If the judge finds probable cause, the warrant is signed and becomes effective immediately. If denied, the officer may supplement the affidavit or decline to proceed.
Execution: The signed warrant is provided to law enforcement, entered into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database, and executed by officers.

Who CANNOT Issue Warrants:

Law enforcement officers acting without judicial authorization
Prosecutors acting independently without judicial review
Administrative agencies (with narrow statutory exceptions)
Private citizens

How To Find Outstanding Warrants in Adams County

An outstanding warrant is one that has been issued by a court but has not yet been executed — meaning the subject has not been arrested or the search has not been conducted. Outstanding warrants remain active in law enforcement databases and may be executed at any time, including during routine traffic stops or other law enforcement encounters.

Methods to Find Outstanding Warrants:

1. Online Warrant Database

Members of the public may search for active warrants through the Adams County Sheriff's Office public records portal, which provides access to warrant and inmate information. The Washington State Courts Name and Case Search allows name-based searches of court case records and displays case status information, including active bench warrants. The Washington State Department of Corrections warrant search is available for individuals under DOC supervision.

These tools are free to access and are updated on a regular basis. Members of the public should be aware that warrants issued within the preceding hours or days may not yet appear in online systems due to processing delays.

2. Direct Contact with Law Enforcement

Adams County Sheriff's Office 50 S. Juniper Street
Ritzville, WA 99169
Phone: (509) 659-1122
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM
Adams County Sheriff's Office

Members of the public may contact the Sheriff's Office by telephone or in person to inquire about active warrants. As noted above, individuals who appear in person and are found to have an active warrant may be subject to immediate arrest.

3. Through the Court Clerk

Adams County Superior Court Clerk 210 W. Broadway Avenue
Ritzville, WA 99169
Phone: (509) 659-3257
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM

The Clerk's Office maintains case records that reflect warrant status. Public access terminals are available for in-person searches. Court staff will not initiate an arrest, but any active warrant remains in effect and may be executed by law enforcement at any time.

4. Through an Attorney

Retaining an attorney is the safest method for individuals who have reason to believe an active warrant may exist. Attorney-client privilege protects communications, and an attorney may verify warrant status, explain the legal implications, and arrange a voluntary surrender if a warrant is confirmed. Voluntary surrender is preferable to an unplanned arrest, as it allows the individual to appear with counsel, may result in faster release on bond, and demonstrates responsibility to the court.

5. Statewide Resources

The Washington Courts Odyssey Portal provides access to court documents across Washington's court system. Registration is required, and elevated access to certain documents must be authorized through the County Clerk's Office.

Search Multiple Jurisdictions:

Warrants may be issued by different courts and entered into different databases. Members of the public who have had legal matters in multiple counties or municipalities should check with each relevant jurisdiction, including city police departments, county sheriff's offices, traffic courts, and criminal courts.

Interpreting Search Results:

If a warrant is found, the individual should note the warrant number, charges, bond amount, issuing court, and issue date, and should consult an attorney before taking any further action. If no warrant is found, members of the public may wish to verify results through multiple official sources, as recently issued warrants may not yet appear in all systems.

Warning About Third-Party Services:

Commercial background check websites may charge fees for warrant information that is available at no cost through official government sources. The accuracy and currency of information provided by commercial services varies, and members of the public are advised to verify any results against official county and state databases.

What to Do If You Find a Warrant:

Do not panic; record all warrant details
Do not attempt to resolve the matter without legal counsel
Contact an attorney immediately
Do not turn yourself in without legal representation
Do not discuss the matter with anyone other than your attorney

How Long Do Warrants Last In Adams County?

Warrants in Adams County do not expire under Washington law. Under current law, both arrest warrants and bench warrants remain active and enforceable until one of the following occurs: the subject is arrested and brought before the court, the issuing court recalls or quashes the warrant, or the underlying case is dismissed. There is no statutory time limit on the enforceability of an outstanding warrant in Washington.

Search warrants are the exception to this rule. Under RCW 10.79.040, a search warrant must be executed within ten days of issuance. If law enforcement does not execute the search warrant within that period, the warrant expires and a new warrant must be obtained upon a fresh showing of probable cause.

The practical consequence of the indefinite duration of arrest and bench warrants is that individuals with outstanding warrants remain at risk of arrest at any time — during a traffic stop, a background check, or any other law enforcement encounter. Warrants entered into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) are accessible to law enforcement agencies throughout the United States, meaning an outstanding Adams County warrant may result in arrest in any other state.

How Long Does It Take To Get a Search Warrant In Adams County?

The time required to obtain a search warrant in Adams County depends on the complexity of the investigation, the availability of the reviewing judicial officer, and whether the matter is handled through standard or expedited procedures.

In straightforward cases, a law enforcement officer who has completed the probable cause affidavit may present the warrant application to a judge or court commissioner and receive a signed warrant within a matter of hours. Adams County Superior Court and District Court judges are available during regular court hours, Monday through Friday, for warrant review. Court commissioners may be available after hours for urgent matters that cannot wait until the next business day.

In more complex investigations — such as those involving digital evidence, financial records, or multi-location searches — the preparation of a legally sufficient affidavit may take days or weeks before the application is presented to a judge. The judicial review itself, once the application is submitted, is conducted promptly, as courts recognize the time-sensitive nature of many law enforcement operations.

Washington courts permit electronic warrant applications in certain circumstances, which can reduce processing time by allowing officers to submit affidavits and receive judicial authorization without requiring an in-person appearance. Once signed, the warrant is effective immediately and must be executed within ten days as required by RCW 10.79.040.

Emergency circumstances, such as the imminent destruction of evidence or an ongoing threat to public safety, may allow law enforcement to proceed under exigent circumstances without a warrant, subject to subsequent judicial review. However, the standard process requires prior judicial authorization before any search is conducted.