Probable Cause Legal Meaning and Definition

Here is a simplified definition of the legal term Probable Cause.

Probable Cause (noun): In legal terms, Probable Cause is a reasonable belief, found upon strong enough evidence, that a particular person has committed a crime or a specific location is connected to a crime. It is based on 'fact and circumstances', and not merely suspicions, enough to convince an average person of a similar reasoning ability. This understanding of probable cause is crucial for law enforcement officials to take actions like making an arrest, issuing an arrest warrant, or conducting a search of a place. It is primarily used to safeguard citizens from unreasonable searches and seizures.