Which situation typically requires probable cause rather than reasonable suspicion?

Probable cause is a higher standard of proof that law enforcement must meet before taking certain actions, such as conducting searches or making arrests. This requirement is rooted in the Fourth Amendment, which protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures.

Issuing a search warrant specifically necessitates probable cause because it involves an examination by a judge or magistrate of the facts presented by law enforcement to determine if there is sufficient justification to invade an individual's privacy. The officer must provide concrete evidence or information that would lead a reasonable person to believe that evidence of a crime will be found in the location specified in the warrant.

In contrast, reasonable suspicion is a lower threshold that law enforcement officers need to meet during more preliminary investigative actions, such as traffic stops or frisks. These actions are often based on specific observations or circumstances that lead an officer to believe that criminal activity may be afoot, but do not yet rise to the level of probable cause. Thus, the situation that requires probable cause instead of reasonable suspicion is the issuance of a search warrant.