Understanding your constitutional rights is essential for protecting yourself and your community when engaging with law enforcement or participating in activism.

This information empowers you to make informed decisions and stay safer during encounters with government agents.

Your Fundamental Rights

Everyone in the United States has constitutional rights, regardless of immigration status. These rights include:

The Right to Remain Silent

You are NOT required to answer questions from law enforcement. Anything you say can be used against you or others in court.

The Right to Refuse Searches

You can deny consent to searches of your person, belongings, vehicle, or home (unless law enforcement has a warrant). Always say out loud: "I do not consent to this search."

The Right to Leave

If you're not being detained, you have the right to walk away. Ask clearly: "Am I being detained, or am I free to go?"

The Right to Legal Representation

You can request a lawyer at any time. Once you ask for a lawyer, law enforcement must stop questioning you.

The "Magic Words"

Memorize and Use These Phrases

When interacting with law enforcement, these specific phrases help you assert your rights clearly:

1. "Am I being detained, or am I free to go?"
 2. "I do not consent to this search."
 3. "I want to remain silent."
 4. "I want to speak with a lawyer."

Practice! Say these words OUT LOUD and CLEARLY. If you don't vocally assert your rights, your silence may be interpreted as legal consent. Even if law enforcement proceeds anyway, stating your objection creates an important legal record.

Anything you say — even something that seems innocent — can be used against you or others in court. That's why asserting your right to remain silent is so powerful.

Remember: You have rights. Know them. Use them. Teach them to others. And request a training for your group, org, or community!

Resources

• Know Your Rights & Risks (English)
• Know Your Rights & Risks (Spanish)
• Know Your Rights & Risks for Activists Slide Deck
• Know Your Rights for Youth
• Know Your Rights for Unhoused
• Know Your Rights & Risks for Immigrants & Allies (English)
• Conozca sus Derechos & Riesgos (Espańol)
• Know Your Rights (Arabic)