In legal terms, what does "frisk" refer to?

The term "frisk" specifically refers to a pat-down search of an individual's outer clothing, primarily conducted by law enforcement officers for the purpose of ensuring there are no weapons present. This type of search is typically performed during a stop-and-frisk scenario, which allows police to briefly detain a person and check for weapons if they have reasonable suspicion that the individual may be armed and involved in criminal activity. The primary goal of a frisk is to ensure officer safety rather than to uncover evidence or contraband, distinguishing it from more invasive forms of search that might require a warrant or probable cause.

Understanding this term is crucial because it highlights the balance between individual rights and public safety in law enforcement practices. The other options presented include actions that do not align with the specific legal definition of a frisk, emphasizing the necessity of knowing the correct terminology in law enforcement contexts.