What are the elements assessed in the arrest test?

The arrest test evaluates crucial factors that ensure law enforcement actions are justified and appropriate. In this context, legality refers to the requirement that any arrest must adhere to legal standards and protocols, ensuring that the action is backed by law and authority. Necessity emphasizes that an arrest should only be made when absolutely required, meaning that less intrusive measures should be considered before taking someone into custody. Personal risk assesses the safety of both the officer and the individual being arrested during the process, recognizing that an arrest can present inherent dangers that must be mitigated.

Understanding these elements is vital for officers, as it guides them in making sound, ethical, and lawful decisions in the field. Conversely, while the other options may include relevant considerations or elements related to law enforcement practices, they do not encapsulate the specific focus and depth of the criteria relevant to the arrest test itself. This distinction is important for officers to maintain accountability and ensure their actions align with established legal frameworks and safety considerations.