What is the definition of probable cause?

Probable cause is defined as a reasonable suspicion that a crime has been committed. It is a critical legal standard used by law enforcement to justify searches, seizures, and arrests. This standard means that, based on the facts and circumstances known to the officer at the time, there is a fair probability that a crime has occurred or will occur. It does not require absolute certainty or definitive proof but rather a strong reason that leads an officer to believe that criminal activity is afoot.

In contrast to absolute certainty, probable cause allows law enforcement to act on observations, behaviors, and other relevant information that, when viewed in totality, provides a solid basis for taking action. This is essential in maintaining a balance between individual rights and the need for effective law enforcement. The other options either suggest a higher standard of proof, such as absolute certainty or a vague notion like an officer's intuition, which does not hold weight in legal contexts where decisions must be grounded in observable facts and situational context.