Know Your Rights in Encounters with Law Enforcement and Military Troops | ACLU

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If you’re in a city where law enforcement or military troops are present, it’s important to know your rights. If you are stopped on the street, you may ask, “Am I free to go?” If the answer is “yes,” you are free to walk away. If arrested or detained, you have the right to remain silent. In certain circumstances, you can also refuse searches of your belongings or car. If you witness or document police or military activity, you generally have the right to record in public spaces as long as you do not interfere with law enforcement activity.

In addition to "Am I free to go?" and "Am I being detained?" and "Am I under arrest?", I would add "I do not consent to a search of myself or any other person, place, or thing."

If the answer to "Am I being detained?" is "Yes," I would ask "Where is my lawyer? I can not afford to hire one, so one must be appointed for me before any questioning."

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Know Your Rights in Encounters with Law Enforcement and Military Troops

The recent militarization of D.C. is a reminder of how quickly government power can expand. Our guide explains what to do if you’re stopped by police or troops.

^{Michael Perloff (American Civil Liberties Union)}