How do reasonable suspicion and probable cause differ?

• A. Reasonable suspicion requires a warrant; probable cause does not.
• B. Reasonable suspicion is a specific, articulable suspicion that justifies a temporary detainment; probable cause is a higher standard justifying arrest or warrant.
• C. Reasonable suspicion is a vague feeling; probable cause is a hunch.
• D. Both require a full probable cause hearing.

Answer: (B)

Reasonable suspicion is a specific, articulable set of facts that would lead a reasonable person to believe that the person is involved in criminal activity, enough to justify a brief investigative stop. It is limited in scope and duration and does not require a warrant. Probable cause is a higher standard, requiring enough evidence to lead a reasonable person to believe that a crime has been or is being committed by the person, which justifies arrest or the issuance of a search warrant. The two standards serve different purposes: a short detainment with reasonable suspicion, versus an arrest or a warrant supported by probable cause. The other options misstate these rules: a stop under reasonable suspicion does not require a warrant; reasonable suspicion is not a vague feeling; and there is no requirement for a full probable cause hearing for a stop or for initial detentions.