Which legal principle prevents illegally obtained evidence from being used in court?

The exclusionary rule is a legal principle rooted in the Fourth Amendment, which protects individuals against unreasonable searches and seizures. This rule mandates that evidence obtained in violation of a person's constitutional rights cannot be used in court. The primary objective of the exclusionary rule is to deter law enforcement from conducting illegal searches and obtaining evidence unlawfully, thereby upholding the integrity of the judicial system.

The other options relate to rights and legal processes but have different functions. Due process pertains to the legal requirement that the state must respect all legal rights owed to a person, ensuring fair treatment through the judicial system. Habeas corpus is a legal action that allows individuals to seek relief from unlawful detention or imprisonment. Miranda rights inform individuals of their rights, especially during custodial interrogation, but do not directly relate to the admissibility of evidence obtained through illegal means.