Real Suspicion: Key Insights into Its Legal Meaning and Application
Definition & Meaning
Real suspicion refers to a reasonable belief that a customs official may have, based on specific, objective facts. This belief leads them to suspect that an individual attempting to enter the United States could be hiding something illegal. It is important for this suspicion to be based on observable evidence rather than mere intuition or assumptions.
Legal Use & context
This term is primarily used in the context of customs and immigration law. It is relevant during border inspections and can impact how officials assess individuals seeking entry into the United States. Real suspicion plays a crucial role in determining whether further investigation or searches are warranted. Users may encounter forms and procedures related to customs inspections, which can often be managed using templates available from US Legal Forms.
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A customs officer observes a traveler who appears unusually nervous, frequently glancing at their luggage. This behavior, combined with the fact that the luggage has been locked and the traveler is evasive when questioned, may lead the officer to develop real suspicion.
Example 2: A person attempts to cross the border carrying a large amount of cash without declaring it. The officer may have real suspicion based on the amount and the individual's inability to provide a legitimate explanation for the cash. (hypothetical example)