Criminal Justice Question

February 25, 2026 Attendance Assignment/Discussion

What is the U.S. Supreme Courts definition of probable cause? For practical purposes, when does probable cause exist?
The Court says that probable cause is to be determined using the standard of an objectively reasonable police officer. What does this mean? Give your own example of an incident where an objectively reasonable police officer would have concluded that he or she had probable cause to make an arrest.
What are the advantages of obtaining a warrant in an arrest and in search and seizure cases?
What did the U.S. Supreme Court say in Spinelli v. United States? Was there probable cause in that case or not? Justify your answer.
What are the three ways whereby probable cause is established? How does one differ from the other?
Give an example of how probable cause is established through information plus corroboration.
Define reasonable suspicion. How has the Supreme Court defined it? For what purpose can it be used in law enforcement?
Reasonable suspicion determinations must be based on the totality of the circumstances. Explain what this means.

Requirements: as needed