What does probable cause require in criminal law?

Probable cause in criminal law refers to the standard by which law enforcement officials have the justification to make an arrest, conduct a search, or obtain a warrant. This standard requires trustworthy facts and circumstances that would lead a reasonable person to believe that a suspect has committed a crime or that evidence of a crime can be found in a particular location. The emphasis on "trustworthy facts" underscores the necessity for a factual basis rather than mere hunches or unproven allegations.

In this context, the option that correctly captures the essence of probable cause is the requirement of reliable evidence that supports the belief in someone's guilt. It is crucial that these facts be more than just a feeling or suspicion, as the law demands a higher level of justification to protect individuals from arbitrary governmental actions. Moreover, the reliance solely on circumstantial evidence or unverified claims lacks the robustness needed to establish probable cause since they do not provide a sufficient basis for a reasonable belief in guilt. This requirement is a fundamental aspect of the legal protections against unreasonable searches and seizures, as outlined in the Fourth Amendment of the Constitution.