Dealing with police is often an intimidating and nerve-wracking experience for many citizens – from traffic stops to interrogations. It is even more frightening when individuals don’t know their rights.
Several resource organizations are dedicated to maintaining the balance between law enforcement and individual freedoms. These groups help to educate citizens on their rights in a variety of situations.
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Here are three resources that can help you understand your rights when dealing with police:
1. The American Civil Liberties Union
The ACLU is committed "to defend and preserve the individual rights and liberties that the Constitution and the laws of the United States guarantee everyone in this country." Extensive online information is maintained by the ACLU to educate people about their rights.
"You have the right to remain silent and cannot be punished for refusing to answer questions," the site said in a publication "What to do if you're stopped by police, immigration agents or FBI." "If you wish to remain silent, tell the officer out loud. In some states, you must give your name if asked to identify yourself."
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2. Flex Your Rights
Flex Your Rights is another civil liberties organization that its website said is “laser-focused on improving the constitutional literacy of all Americans.” The website has a FAQs section that discusses these rights. Furthermore, FYR publishes docudramas that explain how to deal with police encounters.
3. Know My Rights
Know My Rights is another organization dedicated to enabling every citizen "to assert his or her rights under the law." It conducts seminars, podcasts, and workshops to further this mission. On top of this, rights during a police encounter are discussed on the website.
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