Legal Definitions - protective search

A protective search is a type of search conducted by a law enforcement officer to protect their safety and preserve evidence. It involves searching a detained suspect and the area within their immediate control. This type of search can be conducted without a warrant.

For example, if a police officer arrests someone and believes they may have a concealed weapon, they can conduct a protective search to ensure their safety. Another example is if a suspect is detained in a car, the officer can search the area within the suspect's reach to preserve any evidence that may be destroyed.

Overall, a protective search is conducted to protect the safety of the officer and preserve evidence. It is a type of search that can be conducted without a warrant, but it must be reasonable and necessary under the circumstances.