Your Rights During a Police Stop

As a teen, you have specific rights when stopped by police. Knowing these rights can help you stay calm and safe during interactions with law enforcement.

Police stops can happen on the street, in a car, or in public spaces. The Fourth Amendment protects you from unreasonable searches and seizures, and the Fifth Amendment gives you the right to remain silent.

What to Do During a Stop

  • Stay calm and polite: Keep your hands visible and avoid sudden movements to reduce tension.
  • Right to remain silent: You don't have to answer questions about where you're going or what you're doing, except to provide your name in some states.
  • Ask if you're free to go: Politely ask, "Am I free to leave?" If the officer says yes, calmly walk away.
  • Refuse searches without consent: If asked to consent to a search, you can say, "I do not consent to a search."
  • Know stop-and-identify laws: Some states require you to provide your name if police suspect a crime. Check your state's laws.

Never run from police or physically resist, even if you believe the stop is unfair. Resistance can escalate the situation and lead to additional charges.

Arrest & Detention: What You Need to Know

If you're detained or arrested, you have specific protections under the law, especially as a minor. These protections ensure you're treated fairly and have access to legal support.

Minors often have additional rights, such as the right to have a parent or guardian notified. However, you must clearly assert your rights to benefit from them.

Your Rights During Arrest

  • Right to an attorney: You have the right to a lawyer. If you can't afford one, a public defender must be provided.
  • Parental notification: In most states, police must notify your parent or guardian if you're detained as a minor.
  • Right to remain silent: You don't have to answer questions without a lawyer present. Say, "I want to speak to a lawyer."
  • Protection from coercion: Police cannot force you to confess or make statements against your will.
  • Record details: Try to remember the officer's badge number, name, and details of the incident for your lawyer.

If arrested, stay calm, follow instructions, and wait for legal assistance. Do not sign anything or make statements without a lawyer present.

Search & Seizure: Protecting Your Privacy

The Fourth Amendment protects you from unreasonable searches and seizures. Police need a warrant, your consent, or specific circumstances to search you, your belongings, or your home.

Understanding when police can legally search you helps you protect your privacy and avoid unlawful searches.

Key Rules for Searches

  • Warrant requirement: Police generally need a warrant signed by a judge to search your home or private property.
  • Consent searches: If you agree to a search, police can proceed without a warrant. You can say, "I do not consent to a search."
  • Pat-downs: During a stop, police can pat you down for weapons if they have reasonable suspicion you're armed.
  • Plain view: Police can seize items in plain view if they believe they're evidence of a crime.
  • School searches: School officials can search your locker or backpack with reasonable suspicion, but police need a warrant or consent.

Always clearly state if you do not consent to a search, but do not physically resist if police proceed.

Police in Schools: Your Rights

School Resource Officers (SROs) are police officers assigned to schools. They have authority to enforce laws, but your constitutional rights still apply in school settings.

Schools have different rules than public spaces, and SROs often work with school administrators. Knowing your rights can help you navigate these interactions.

Your Rights in School

  • Limited searches: SROs need reasonable suspicion to search you, and searches must be related to school safety or rules.
  • Right to silence: You can remain silent if questioned by an SRO, just as you would with any police officer.
  • Parental involvement: Schools often notify parents before SRO questioning, but you can still request a lawyer.
  • Discipline vs. law enforcement: SROs should only handle criminal matters, not school discipline issues like tardiness.
  • Know your school’s policy: Check your school’s handbook for specific rules about SRO interactions.

If an SRO questions you, stay respectful, assert your rights, and ask to speak with a parent or lawyer if needed.