Do you know what legal right you have? In America, many people only know one or two of their Constitutional rights.
If you are stopped by the police, knowing your legal rights could protect you from serious criminal charges:
1. Your right to remain silent
Under the Fifth Amendment, you have the right to refuse to answer any questions law enforcement asks you. These questions could include, for example, where you were, what you were doing or who you were with at a specific time. Answering any questions a police officer asks could lead to self-incriminating comments even if you believe you did not do anything illegal. Self-incriminating comments could tie you to a crime you were not aware of. If the police ask you any questions, you can enforce your rights by pleading the Fifth.
2. Your right against unreasonable searches
Under the Fourth Amendment, you have the right to privacy. In other words, the police can not unreasonably search you or your property without having a warrant. A search warrant would allow the police to search a property or vehicle at a specific time and place. Alternatively, the police could search if they made a lawful arrest or have reasonable suspicion of a crime. Evidence collected after an unreasonable search and seizure can be dismissed in court.
3. Your right to record the police
Under the First Amendment, you may be able to record the police. By recording the police, you can hold them accountable for their actions. If the police abuse their power, a recording could be used in court to protect your rights. However, recording the police may be illegal if it interferes with an investigation.
Enforcing your legal rights can protect you from official overreaches. You may have a strong legal defense if your legal rights were violated.
