Answer :
The correct answer is option (a). The correct term indicating that a law enforcement officer has reasons to believe that a law is being violated is probable cause .
A. Probable cause:
This term indicates that a law enforcement officer has sufficient reason based on facts or evidence to believe that a law is being violated. It is a standard required for obtaining search and arrest warrants and making arrests.
B. Reasonable suspicion:
- This term refers to a lower standard than probable cause. It is used to justify temporary detentions or stop-and-frisk procedures but does not require as much evidence as probable cause.
C. Due process:
- This term refers to the legal requirement that the state must respect all legal rights owed to a person. It involves fair treatment through the normal judicial system but does not specifically indicate belief in a law being violated.
D. Beyond a reasonable doubt:
- This term is used in the context of proving guilt in criminal trials. It signifies the highest standard of proof required for a conviction, rather than an indication of belief in a law violation.
The complete question is :
Which of the following terms indicates that a law enforcement officer has reasons to believe that a law is being violated?
A. Probable cause
B. Reasonable suspicion
C. Due process
D. Beyond a reasonable doubt