Interacting With Law Enforcement
When your living situation is unstable, you are more likely to encounter police.
Many youth on the street talk to cops or security people every day – especially when they use public spaces like the light rail, library, or shopping mall.
Here are 5 ways to help protect your rights during any interaction with law enforcement.
1. Say no to unlawful searches.
If you are arrested, police have the right to search you.
If you’re not under arrest, police must ask to search you or your property and you can say no. Be polite but firm, and don’t let anyone trick you into giving permission.
Unless there’s an emergency or serious crime taking place, police can’t enter your residence without a warrant. Ask officers to show you a warrant before allowing them inside.
2. You can remain silent and wait for a lawyer.
You have the right to remain silent during any interaction with police. If you don’t feel comfortable sharing information, don’t talk to the police or anyone else. Tell the officer that you will not talk to anyone until you have a lawyer.
3. Stay calm
Remain calm, even if your rights are being violated. Don’t threaten a police officer or you may escalate the situation. It is often better to challenge police in court.
4. Keep a record of what happens.
Keep a record of your encounter with the police. Remember names, times, locations and events.
If you’re alone during an encounter, you could make a phone call to someone who can listen and be a witness to what happens.
5. Get free legal help if you need it.
If you’re homeless or unemployed, a volunteer lawyer can give you advice or even represent you in court. Check out these organizations that can provide free legal help to young people in the Twin Cities.
- YouthLink Youth Law Clinic: A good place to start if you aren’t sure about the kind of legal help you need.
- Communities United Against Police Brutality. Providing support for survivors of police brutality and their families.
- Children’s Law Center: Free attorneys for foster care kids or youth transitioning into independent life.
- Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services: Free legal assistance for low income people with critical legal problems
- Volunteer Lawyers Network: Legal advice and representation at no charge to clients.
- Legal Aid Society: Provide legal help for Minnesotans who lack access to the justice system and cannot afford a private attorney.
- Legal Rights Center: Quality legal representation for both juveniles and adults without charge.
- Neighborhood Justice Center: Provides criminal defense services to low-income and needy people in the East Metro, with a focus on communities of color.
Photo by Fibonacci Blue