In the Matter of Search of Mar-a-Lago, 22-cv-81294 (S.D. Fl.).  Motion for Judicial Oversight and Additional Relief, August 22, 2022

In re: Sealed Search Warrant, 22-8332 (BER).  Order on Motions to Unseal, August 22, 2022.

Pursuant to a federal warrant, on August 8, 2022, Federal Bureau of Investigation agents searched for and removed materials from former President Donald Trump’s Florida residence.  Subsequently the former president was presented with a list of materials removed.  

Much speculation and discussion has attended this historic use of law enforcement personnel.  

The former president has raised Fourth Amendment challenges to the search of Mar-a-Lago.  Stressing that at all times documents relating to presidential records he was cooperative with federal authorities, he argues that the warrant itself was so nonspecific and overly broad as to offend the Fourth Amendment.

Moreover, the former president has moved for appointment of a Special Master to oversee the review of seized materials, arguing that a “clean team” of federal agents ought not be permitted to unilaterally conduct the review, and further arguing that the ‘receipt’ from the government is deficient in that it fails to describe fairly what was seized, precluding fair challenge to any review or disposition of seized materials. 

Although the scaffolding of the warrant has been disclosed, the affidavit has been withheld by the government, which has cited the personal safety of informants or witnesses and to potential disruption of ongoing investigations and proceedings.  Multiple media defendants have challenged that position, arguing that the public interest in this matter is sufficient to overcome the government’s interest in protecting sources and materials.

The magistrate judge who issued the warrant has agreed with the media intervenors, subject to any appropriate redactions, proposals for which he has invited the Department of Justice to submit by August 25.  

In re Matter of Search of Mar-a-Lago 22cv81294 (S.D. Fla.) Motion for Judicial Oversight and Additional Relief, August 22 2022.

In re Sealed Search Warrant 22mj08332 (BER) Order on Motions to Unseal August 22 2022.