What is meant by “probable cause”?
The issue of probable cause has been a popular debate amongst lawyers, lawmakers and the entire justice system. Probable cause doesn’t require proof beyond a reasonable doubt, but it needs to be more substantial than an officer’s “hunch.”DefinitionThe American Bar Association defines probable cause as “facts sufficient to support a reasonable belief that criminal activity is probably taking place or knowledge of circumstances indicating a fair probability that evidence of crime will be found.”SignificanceIf used in the proper way, probable cause reasoning can help officers decrease crime and diffuse situations before they occur.Fourth AmendmentAccording to the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, citizens are protected against illegal searches and seizures, unless probable cause is present to warrant a search or seizure of property.ConsiderationsIn many cases, probable cause is used in traffic detainment. For example, if a civilian is speeding, or running a red light, that gives
