Which case law is known for addressing unreasonable searches and seizures?

The significance of Terry v. Ohio lies in its pivotal role in shaping the legal standards governing searches and seizures under the Fourth Amendment. This landmark case established the "stop and frisk" rule, which allows police officers to temporarily detain and search an individual if they have a reasonable suspicion that the person is involved in criminal activity and may be armed. The case arose when Officer McFadden observed suspicious behavior by two men and approached them for questioning. When he felt a weapon during the encounter, he conducted a search, which led to the discovery of a firearm.

The ruling clarified that law enforcement could perform limited searches for weapons if they could articulate a reasonable belief of danger, even if they did not have probable cause at that moment. This allowed for a balance between personal liberties and the need for police to ensure their safety and that of the public during their duties. Terry v. Ohio fundamentally addressed the parameters of what constitutes an unreasonable search and seizure, making it a cornerstone in the understanding and application of the Fourth Amendment protections.