Which of the following best describes “probable cause”?

The concept of "probable cause" is fundamental in the criminal justice process, particularly in the context of law enforcement and the judicial system. It refers to the legal standard that law enforcement must meet before they can obtain a warrant for arrest or search, or before proceeding with criminal charges. Probable cause requires that law enforcement officers have a reasonable belief that a crime has been committed, and that the suspect is likely involved. This standard is based on the totality of circumstances and requires more than mere suspicion but less than the evidence necessary for a conviction.

This definition aligns closely with the correct choice, which emphasizes a reasonable belief that a crime has occurred. This belief must be based on facts or evidence, rather than assumptions or conjecture, ensuring that individual rights are protected under the Fourth Amendment against unreasonable searches and seizures.

The other options do not accurately encapsulate the meaning of probable cause. The standard for appealing convictions relates to legal standards after a verdict has been reached, an assumption of guilt directly contradicts the presumption of innocence fundamental to criminal justice, and requirements for bail decisions relate to risk assessments and flight risk rather than the specific standard of probable cause needed for initiating criminal proceedings. Thus, recognizing probable cause as a reasonable belief that a crime occurred is