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

See Examples For:

probable cause

By law, before making civil immigration arrests agents must have probable cause that a person is unlawfully present and that the person might escape before a warrant is issued.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 13, 2026

"We believe we will more than accomplish the evidentiary burden of probable cause at this point to hold David to answer on these three felony charges," Hochman told the press.

From Barron's ● Jul. 21, 2026

Prosecutors would need to show they have adequate evidence to establish probable cause and proceed toward trial.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 6, 2026

It might instead be something lower, like probable cause.

From Slate ● Jun. 23, 2026

Once upon a time, it was generally understood that the police could not stop and search someone without a warrant unless there was probable cause to believe that the individual was engaged in criminal activity.

From "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander