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In the broadest answer as to whether the police need a warrant to search your cell phone in California, the answer is yes, they need a warrant unless you give your consent. Technically, the police cannot even look at the screen without a warrant, even if they press the button to turn it off.
Cell phones are a major part of our everyday lives now. We have text messages, GPS data, emails, and phone calls on there. Many people keep sensitive information entrusted on their phones. People are very private about their cell phones, even if there is no passcode to unlock it. People often do not want others looking over their shoulder, nor do they want to be that person just peeking over at the person next to them. It is a common-courtesy privacy thing, really.
So call it a major win for well, everyone. The police need a warrant to search your cell phone.
If you or a loved one wind up arrested because of evidence found on your cell phone or not, you may be eligible to post bail. This will be decided at your arraignment. If you are eligible for bail, have someone on your behalf reach out to us, Torrance Bail Bonds.