Your Rights in Public

Know what to do if you're approached by law enforcement on the street, at work, or in public spaces.

Constitutional Protections

The Fourth and Fifth Amendments protect everyone in the United States — citizens and non-citizens alike. You have rights even in public spaces.

Your Core Rights

Right to Remain Silent

You do not have to answer questions about where you were born, your immigration status, or where you live. Say: "I am exercising my right to remain silent."

Right to Refuse Consent to Search

You can refuse to allow a search of yourself or your belongings. Say clearly: "I do not consent to a search." (They may search anyway, but your refusal is on record.)

Right to Ask if You're Free to Go

Ask: "Am I being detained, or am I free to go?" If you're free to go, calmly walk away. If detained, you still have the right to remain silent.

Right to Record

In most public places, you have the right to record police activity. Do not interfere with their actions, but you can observe and document from a safe distance.

Different Situations

On the Street

  • • Stay calm and keep your hands visible
  • • Ask: "Am I being detained or am I free to go?"
  • • You don't have to answer questions about your identity in most states
  • • Do not run or physically resist

At Work

  • • Employers cannot give agents access to private areas without a warrant
  • • You can remain silent and ask for an attorney
  • • Do not sign anything you don't understand
  • • Note badge numbers and agency names

In a Vehicle

  • • Pull over safely and turn off the engine
  • • Keep hands visible on the steering wheel
  • • Drivers must show license, registration, and insurance
  • • Passengers can remain silent and don't have to show ID in most states
  • • You can refuse consent to search the vehicle

At Immigration Checkpoints

  • • Interior checkpoints (not at the border) have limited authority
  • • You can remain silent about citizenship and immigration status
  • • They cannot search your vehicle without consent or probable cause
  • • Brief detention for questioning is legal, but prolonged detention requires justification

Phrases to Use

To Exercise Your Rights:

  • "Am I being detained or am I free to go?"
  • "I am exercising my right to remain silent."
  • "I do not consent to a search."
  • "I want to speak to a lawyer."

Stay Safe:

  • Keep your hands visible at all times
  • Stay calm and speak politely
  • Do not run, argue, or physically resist
  • Do not lie or provide false documents

After an Encounter

  • Write down everything you remember as soon as possible
  • Note badge numbers, patrol car numbers, and agency names
  • Get contact information from witnesses
  • If you believe your rights were violated, contact a civil rights organization
  • Photograph any injuries

Resources