What is the term for evidence sufficient to warrant an arrest or search and seizure?

Probable cause refers to the reasonable belief, based on facts or circumstances, that a crime has been committed or that specific evidence linked to a crime can be found in a particular location. It serves as a legal standard that law enforcement must meet in order to obtain a search warrant or make an arrest. This concept is crucial because it balances individual rights against the need for law enforcement to maintain public safety and conduct legitimate investigations.

In the context of law enforcement, probable cause is established through observable evidence, credible sources, or witness accounts, which together provide a reasonable basis for action. The importance of probable cause lies in ensuring that people are not subjected to arbitrary searches or arrests without just cause, thereby protecting constitutional rights.

The other terms presented do not fit this legal definition. A search warrant is an order allowing law enforcement to conduct a search, but it must be based on probable cause. Witness testimony is a valuable source of evidence, but it does not guarantee the standard needed for making arrests or conducting searches. Reasonable doubt refers to the standard of proof required in criminal trials to convict a defendant, which is distinct from the requirements for probable cause.