Parallel Construction: A Defense Attorney’s Guide to Discovering and Challenging Original Source Evidence in Criminal Investigations (Virginia Approved for 1 CLE Credit)

The legal landscape changed after Edward Snowden leaked information on the NSA's major bulk collections and misuses of data. This course, designed to assist practitioners in criminal defense, offers insight into a concept known as "parallel construction," in which law enforcement receives information from warrantless or undisclosed surveillance and then reconstructs the investigation making it appear as though the investigation's source originated elsewhere. This technique, which can be used to hide questionable or unlawful surveillance, significantly undermines Fourth Amendment protections. Understanding how it works, learning to identify signs indicating its use, and contemplating ways to challenge the origination in court can lead to better results for clients and a broader goal of achieving greater transparency in the criminal legal system.