Frivolous lawsuits are legal claims that lack any serious merit or basis in law. They are often filed to harass or burden the defendant rather than to seek genuine justice. These lawsuits can waste court resources and time, leading to delays in legitimate cases. In many jurisdictions, courts have mechanisms to dismiss frivolous lawsuits quickly. Additionally, some legal systems impose penalties on those who file such claims, which can include fines or the requirement to pay the defendant's legal fees. This helps discourage the misuse of the legal system and promotes more responsible litigation practices.