Answer :
Final answer:
The legal grounds law enforcement uses to make an arrest or conduct a search is referred to as probable cause. Hence the correct option is (a).
Explanation:
Probable cause is a legal standard that is lower than the burden of proof required at trial. It means law enforcement must have sufficient reason, based on known facts, to believe a crime has been committed or that evidence of a crime is present in the place to be searched.
This standard is crucial for issuing search warrants or making arrests without a warrant under certain conditions.
By contrast, reasonable suspicion is a lower standard that allows law enforcement officers to detain individuals briefly and conduct a frisk if they believe a crime is being committed, has been committed, or is about to be committed.
However, it doesn't suffice for arrests or most searches. Preponderance of evidence is a standard used in civil cases, requiring that a party's claim be more likely true than not. The exclusionary rule prevents illegally obtained evidence from being used in court.
