What Is Fruit of the Poisonous Tree?
The term “fruit of the poisonous tree” is used to describe a rule of evidence exclusion in the United States in which evidence obtained through illegal means is excluded from trial. The term references the idea that if the means, the “tree” are illegal, than the evidence, the “fruit,” is tainted by association. This doctrine often comes up in the context of evidence associated with illegal searches and interrogations; even if the evidence itself is very solid proof of illegal activity, it is not considered admissible because it was obtained illegally.
