Wilson v. Layne: Increasing the Scope of the Fourth Amendment Right to Privacy

Abstract

This Note will examine the Court's decision in Wilson and discuss its implications for future Fourth Amendment analysis. Part II traces the historical background of the Court's interpretation of the Fourth Amendment, Title 42 of the United States Code Section 1983, and the defense of qualified immunity. Part III sets forth the facts of Wilson as reported by the Court. Part IV analyzes Chief Justice Rehnquist's majority opinion and Justice Stevens' opinion dissenting in part, and compares the reasoning behind each opinion. Part V considers the probable impact of the Court's decision in Wilson on various groups, including the judiciary, legislature, and society. Finally, Section VI briefly concludes the Note with a look at how this ruling will protect private citizens in the future.