Misconceptions

Probable cause does not require absolute certainty that a crime has been committed. Nor is the amount of evidence required for finding probable cause the same as that evidence required at trial to prove a defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Identification

The amount of evidence sufficient to meet the probable cause standard is evidence from which a reasonable person could conclude that a suspect has committed or is in the process of committing a crime.

Supreme Court Interpretation

In 1983, the United States Supreme Court ruled in Illinois v. Gates, that a "substantial chance" or "fair probability" that criminal activity has transpired is sufficient to constitute probable cause for an arrest.

Significance

Probable cause may exist even if there is some doubt as to the suspect's connection in the commission of a crime.

Considerations

The precise amount of evidence required for probable cause will depend on the facts and circumstances of each particular case. For example, momentarily detaining an individual for a routine traffic violation, in and of itself, does not give police the right to conduct a full search of the motorist's vehicle.

Source:

Free Online Law Dictionary.