Understand the procedural basis
It should be clear which decision authorises the search, which premises or items it covers and what the scope of the investigation is. It is important to record not only that the search took place, but also precisely what was sought and seized.
Right to legal assistance
A lawyer should be contacted as early as possible. Legal assistance can help ensure that procedural actions are properly recorded and seized items and data are clearly identified.
Do not destroy or conceal data
Destroying documents or electronic data may significantly worsen the procedural position. At the same time, there is no need to volunteer information beyond what is requested and relevant to the action.
After the search
The next step is to assess what was seized, what information may now be available to investigators, whether procedural actions should be challenged and what immediate defence steps are required.