What best describes the difference between reasonable suspicion and probable cause?

• A. Reasonable suspicion permits arrest
• B. Probable cause permits seizure but not arrest
• C. Reasonable suspicion permits seizure
• D. Both require warrants

Answer: (C)

In police encounters the level of justification matters for what can be done. Reasonable suspicion is the lower standard used to briefly detain someone for investigation—essentially a stop. Probable cause is the higher standard needed to justify an arrest or a search (usually with a warrant). So, the best description is that reasonable suspicion permits a seizure (a temporary stop for investigation). An arrest requires probable cause, not just reasonable suspicion, and a search generally requires probable cause (often with a warrant). It’s also incorrect to say both require warrants, since stops do not.