2. Decide if you want to give permission

The police can search your home or business without a search warrant if you give them a special type of permission called informed consent.

Your permission is considered to be informed consent if:

• the police told you that you don't have to give them permission,
• you understand what the police are asking you to do, and
• you understand what might happen if you agree to their request.

If the police approach you and ask if they can search your home or business, you have the right to say no. It's best to talk to a lawyer as soon as possible if you're asked to agree to a search. A lawyer can help you understand what might happen if you agree to let the police search your home or business.