Probable cause

What is Probable cause?

Reasonable grounds to believe that someone should be searched or arrested. The evidentiary standard required to obtain a search or arrest warrant. Mere suspicion is insufficient; there must be facts and circumstances to convince a reasonably prudent person of the suspect's guilt.

Further Reading

For more detailed information, see our related Criminal Law terms:

• Provocation

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Stephanie Bagnall

Licensed Attorney and Legal Researcher

Stephanie Bagnall is a Georgia-licensed attorney and legal researcher with experience in accessibility law, compliance, employment law, and legal writing. She helps develop and review BarPrepHero's Legal Terms content for clarity, accuracy, and usefulness to bar exam students.

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