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Definition of "probable cause" []

  • Reasonable grounds for belief that an accused person may be subject to arrest or the issuance of a warrant. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Use "probable cause" in a sentence
  • "Perflorinated compounds PFCsb—a probable cause of many cancers as well as liver and kidney damage, and reproductive problems, PFCs are used to make Stuff resist sticking and staining."
  • "Then Escambia County Judge Russell Cole ruled there was no probable cause to believe that the death of Lathern Broughton was a result of a criminal act, criminal negligence or foul play on the part of deputies."
  • "In most criminal cases, the State Attorney's Office decides whether probable cause exists to pursue criminal charges against an individual."
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