Law Dictionary Definitions

frisk,n. A pat-down search to discover a concealed weapon. — Also termed pat-down. See STOP AND FRISK. Cf. SEARCH(1). [Cases: Arrest 63.5(8); Automobiles 349.5(10); Searches and Seizures 70. C.J.S. Arrest § 40; Searches and Seizures §§ 88–89.][Blacks Law 8th]

fringe benefit.See BENEFIT.[Blacks Law 8th]

friend of the court. 1.AMICUS CURIAE. 2. In some jurisdictions, an official who investigates and advises the court in domestic-relations cases involving minors. • The friend of the court may also help enforce court orders in those cases. [Cases: Child Custody 613, 616; Infants 208.C.J.S. Infants §§ 57–61, 63, 68–85.][Blacks Law 8th]

friendly takeover.See TAKEOVER.[Blacks Law 8th]

friendly suitor.See WHITE KNIGHT.[Blacks Law 8th]

friendly suit.A lawsuit in which all the parties have agreed beforehand to allow a court to resolve the issues. • Friendly suits are often filed by settling parties who wish to have a judgment entered.[Blacks Law 8th]

friendly society.In Britain, a voluntary association, supported by subscriptions or contributions, for the purpose of providing financial relief to ill members and to their widows and children upon death. • Friendly societies are regulated by statute. See benevolent association under ASSOCIATION. Cf. FRATERNAL BENEFIT ASSOCIATION.[Blacks Law 8th]

friendly-parent law.A statute that requires or allows a judge to consider as a factor in awarding custody the extent to which one parent encourages or thwarts the child’s relationship with the other parent.[Blacks Law 8th]

friendly fire. 1. A fire burning where it is intended to burn, yet capable of causing unintended damage. 2. Military or police gunfire that injures one’s own side.[Blacks Law 8th]

friendly amendment. See AMENDMENT(3).[Blacks Law 8th]