What does "probable cause to search" indicate?

"Probable cause to search" refers to the legal standard that law enforcement must meet before conducting a search. This standard means that there exists a fair probability that evidence of a crime, or contraband, will be found in the place to be searched.

In this context, the phrase "more likely than not" is crucial. It establishes that the belief in the likelihood of finding relevant evidence must be based on facts and circumstances that would cause a reasonable person to have a specific suspicion. This does not require certainty or absolute proof; rather, it’s a balancing test against a low threshold that considers the totality of the circumstances.

The other choices do not accurately reflect this standard. Proof that a crime has already been committed is a higher standard of certainty and is not necessary to establish probable cause. Similarly, expressing little likelihood of finding evidence contradicts the very definition of probable cause, as this standard must indicate a reasonable chance of discovery. Certainty that a crime has occurred sets an unattainably high bar for law enforcement, contrasting significantly with the more flexible and pragmatic standard of probable cause. Thus, "more likely than not that evidence or contraband will be found" accurately summarizes what probable cause entails.