What is the legal definition of "detainment"?

The legal definition of "detainment" primarily involves the act of holding someone against their will for the purpose of questioning or investigation. This definition aligns with the principle that detainment restricts an individual's freedom of movement without necessarily charging them with a crime. Detainment can occur in situations where law enforcement officials have reasonable suspicion that a person is involved in criminal activity, allowing them to question the individual further to gather information.

In this context, the focus is on the element of compulsion or lack of consent, which is crucial in distinguishing detainment from mere questioning. While the other options may have elements that reflect aspects of detainment, they do not capture the full legal implications. For instance, holding someone off-site for questioning may not always constitute detainment if the person is free to leave. Similarly, preventing someone from leaving a location can imply a broader range of circumstances, not all of which would legally qualify as detainment. The option regarding shopping for legal advice does not pertain to the concept of detainment at all. Thus, the core definition accurately reflects the legal term as it pertains to law enforcement practices.