What must be established for a valid arrest?

A valid arrest requires the establishment of probable cause. This means that law enforcement officers must have sufficient and trustworthy information that would lead a reasonable person to believe that a crime has been committed and that the individual being arrested is responsible for that crime. Probable cause is a higher standard than reasonable suspicion, which may only require a minimal level of belief based on facts.

In situations where arrests are made without a warrant, it becomes essential that officers can demonstrate probable cause to justify the action taken, ensuring that the rights of the individual are respected and that the arrest adheres to legal standards. This fundamental principle protects against arbitrary detention and is critical for maintaining the integrity of the legal system.

Judicial approval, while sometimes important in certain legal contexts, is not a requirement for all arrests, particularly in exigent circumstances or when a violation is witnessed by the officer. Similarly, witness corroboration can be valuable in some cases but is not always necessary for establishing probable cause or effecting an arrest.