probable cause

American  

noun

Law.

1. reasonable ground for a belief, as, in a criminal case, that the accused was guilty of the crime, or, in a civil case, that grounds for the action existed: used especially as a defense to an action for malicious prosecution.

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probable cause British  

noun

1. law reasonable grounds for holding a belief, esp such as will justify bringing legal proceedings against a person or will constitute a defence to a charge of malicious prosecution

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Etymology

Origin of probable cause

First recorded in 1670–80

Example Sentences

Cervantes accuses officers of pushing forward with an arrest despite lacking probable cause and building a case against her based on false statements.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 7, 2026

According to his probable cause affidavit, Ramirez said Beverley’s sister told him that her mother had called Beverley to come over after discovering that the girl had been out with her boyfriend without permission.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 24, 2026

Howell then issued an injunction barring warrantless immigration arrests without probable cause in D.C.

From Slate • Feb. 18, 2026

It is not known what evidence the federal government used to show probable cause for the raid because the underlying affidavit was sealed.

From Salon • Feb. 10, 2026

Prosecutors admit that they routinely charge people with crimes for which they technically have probable cause but which they seriously doubt they could ever win in court.

From "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander