Which statement best defines probable cause for obtaining a search warrant?

• A. A belief based solely on hunches.
• B. A reasonable belief, supported by facts, that evidence or contraband is likely located in the place to be searched.
• C. A certainty that evidence will be found.
• D. A confirmed alarm from a confidential informant alone.

Answer: (B)

Probable cause is a reasonable belief, based on facts and circumstances, that evidence or contraband is likely located in the place to be searched. It’s stronger than a mere suspicion but not an absolute certainty, and courts evaluate it using the totality of the circumstances. This means the information must be credible and tied to observable facts that would lead a reasonable person to believe something valuable will be found there. A belief based only on hunches isn’t enough, and certainty is more than what the law requires for a search warrant. Similarly, an informant’s tip alone isn’t enough unless there is corroborating information or independent facts that support reliability and the likelihood that evidence is present.