KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
What to Do If You Encounter The Police
Given the recent campaign by the Trump administration to detain and deport undocumented immigrants living in the United States, it is important that you are familiar with your civil rights and know what to do if you encounter law enforcement.
If you encounter the police:
Always carry your immigration papers.
Stay calm. Do not resist officer demands or obstruct law enforcement proceedings, even if you believe your rights are being violated.
Do not provide false information or documents.
Non-citizens may be required to present immigration papers. If you do not have immigration documentation, you may decline an officer’s request for documents.
Remember you Alien Identification Number, or “A-Number”. Share it with your family; this is what they will use to locate you if you are detained.
Know your rights
You have the right to remain silent. Do not answer any questions—especially those related to your immigration status, country of origin, or citizenship.
You have the right to consult a lawyer. Do not provide information to anyone other than your lawyer.
Say, “I wish to remain silent. I do not wish to answer any questions. I would like to speak with a lawyer.”
Do not sign anything.
If the police come to your home:
Do not open your door. You do not have to allow law enforcement officers to enter or search your home if they do not have a warrant to do so.
Ask officers to show their badges or other identification through a peephole or window. Ask officers to provide an explanation for their visit.
If officers have a warrant signed by a judge, ask them to present it through a window or by passing it under the door.
Do not allow officers to enter your home if they do not have a search or arrest warrant naming specific persons present at your address.
If officers force their way into your home, do not resist. Say, “I do not consent to your entry or to your search of these premises. I wish to speak with a lawyer immediately.”
Record your interaction with law enforcement or take notes on their activities during your encounter.
If you are detained:
Request to speak with a lawyer.
You have the right to make phone calls.
If you cannot understand what you are being told or reading, ask for an interpreter.