What is the primary legal purpose of a frisk?

The primary legal purpose of a frisk is to ensure officer safety and locate a weapon. This practice, typically referred to as a "stop and frisk," is rooted in the need for law enforcement officers to protect themselves during encounters with individuals whom they reasonably suspect may pose a threat. The frisk allows an officer to pat down the outer clothing of a person to check for concealed weapons that could be used to harm the officer or others.

The underlying principle is based on the Fourth Amendment, which protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures. A frisk is a limited, precautionary measure aimed at guaranteeing the safety of both the officer and the public without infringing upon individuals' privacy rights beyond what is necessary for that safety. This legal standard was established in the Supreme Court case Terry v. Ohio, which set clear guidelines for when and how an officer can conduct a frisk, emphasizing the importance of safety in law enforcement activities.