Which doctrine allows police to seize evidence without a warrant when it is in plain view?

• A. Inevitable discovery doctrine
• B. Good faith exception
• C. Plain view doctrine
• D. Exclusionary doctrine

Answer: (C)

Plain view allows a warrantless seizure when the officer is legally present in the location, the evidence is in plain view, and its incriminating nature is immediately apparent. Because the officer is already lawfully where they are and can clearly recognize that the item is evidence of a crime or contraband without moving or manipulating objects, no warrant is needed at that moment. This is what makes it the correct choice.

Inevitable discovery covers items that would have been found through lawful means anyway, not simply what is seen in plain view. The good faith exception deals with the use of evidence when a warrant or legal procedure is flawed but relied on in good faith, not with establishing a warrantless plain-view seizure. The exclusionary rule is about suppressing illegally obtained evidence, not providing a basis to seize without a warrant.