Reading A Search Warrant
G.L. c. 276, § 2 — the place described, the property particularly described, and daytime unless it says otherwise
In Massachusetts, a court or justice may issue a search warrant on a complaint under oath, if satisfied there is probable cause to believe the property named is concealed in the place or with the person to be searched. The warrant identifies the property and names or describes the person or place.
Daytime, unless the warrant says nighttime. A search warrant designates and describes the building, place, vessel or vehicle to be searched, and particularly describes the property to be searched for. It commands the search in the daytime, or at night only if the warrant so directs.
The person seeking the warrant appears in person or electronically and gives an affidavit setting out the facts, information and circumstances relied on. The affidavit is filed with the warrant when it is returned, and is not a public document until then.
Sources for this section (3)
- G.L. c. 276, § 1 — Complaint for a search warrant
- G.L. c. 276, § 2 — Requisites of a warrant
- G.L. c. 276, § 2B — Affidavit supporting a search warrant
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of September 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Massachusetts attorney.