What does the term 'Probable Cause' refer to?

The term "Probable Cause" is primarily understood as a standard used in the legal system that allows law enforcement to make an arrest, conduct a search, or obtain a warrant. It represents a reasonable belief that a crime has been committed or that a specific individual is involved in criminal activity, based on the facts and circumstances surrounding the case. This standard is essential in ensuring that individuals are not subject to arbitrary arrest or searches, thus balancing law enforcement powers with individual rights.

While options suggesting an absolute belief or the necessity for verified evidence describe different legal standards, they do not capture the essence of what "Probable Cause" entails. It is fundamentally about having sufficient factual basis, which is less than certainty but more substantial than mere suspicion or intuition.