How to Flex Your Rights During Police Encounters

Probable cause is the legal standard by which a police officer has the right to make an arrest, conduct a personal or property search, or to obtain a warrant for arrest. While many factors contribute to a police officer’s level of authority in a given situation, the probable cause standard requires facts or evidence that would lead a reasonable person to believe that a suspect has committed a crime.

Common examples of probable cause include the sight or smell of contraband in plain view or plain smell, or an admission of guilt for a specific crime. The presentation of any of these facts would allow an officer to perform a search and make an arrest.

Be aware that minor traffic violations (e.g. speeding, broken tail-light, or expired registration) are not considered probable cause.

Clip from the DVD, BUSTED: The Citizen's Guide to Surviving Police Encounters