What is the difference between probable cause and reasonable suspicion?

Probable cause and reasonable suspicion are two legal concepts used in criminal procedure cases in Kansas. Probable cause is a higher standard of proof than reasonable suspicion when it comes to criminal proceedings. Probable cause is defined as a reasonable level of belief, supported by facts and circumstances, that a person has committed a crime. This belief must be based on information that would cause a reasonable person to believe that a crime has been committed and that the accused person was responsible for it. The individual making the accusation must have a legitimate basis for believing the accused is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Reasonable suspicion is a much lower standard of proof than probable cause. Reasonable suspicion is defined as a suspicion that is based on facts and circumstances sufficient to cause a prudent person to believe that a crime has been committed or that a person is involved in a criminal activity. The individual making the accusation does not need to have evidence that proves the accused’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt; they simply need to have facts that lead them to suspect the accused’s involvement in criminal activity. In summary, probable cause is a higher standard of proof than reasonable suspicion. Probable cause requires a reasonable level of belief, based on facts and circumstances, that a crime has been committed and that the accused person is responsible for it. Reasonable suspicion is a much lower standard of proof, and requires that the individual making the accusation have facts sufficient to cause them to suspect the accused’s involvement in criminal activity.

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