Alliance Working for
Asian Rights and Empowerment
The "Know Your Rights" card detailed below has been distributed to
thousands of young people in Southern California to help empower them and
their parents about their rights. Be AWARE of your constitutional rights,
otherwise they could be eroded by poorly trained police officers. The bulk
of the text of this card was published ("Card Details Rights") in the
February 15, 1996 edition of the Orange County Register, Metro
section, p. 2. WARNING: Although the wording was cleared by lawyers we
consulted, AWARE does not claim to give legal advice, and does not accept
any liability over the use of this card. The card is provided merely as an
educational service. Both sides of the card appear below.
To return to
the AWARE home page, click here: AWARE.
Know Your Rights
If Police Stop
You:
You have certain rights. Police cannot stop and detain you
unless there is a legally valid reason. The best option is to remain calm
and be courteous. Do NOT resist the police. You have the right to ask if
you can leave; if the police say no, you are being detained. You have the
right to ask why. Police may try to conduct a "field interview" with you.
In general, it is NOT wise to answer any questions (beyond giving your
name & address) or agree to a search without your lawyer present.
Remember to note the badge and name of each police officer and the time,
date and place. Ask if you are under arrest.
If Police Try to
Photograph You Without Arresting You:
You have the right to say
no. If you filled out the other side of this card, you can show it to the
police. Police are photographing youth for gang files, even if you are
not a gang member. Civil liberties groups like AWARE are fighting this
practice. You can help by reporting such incidents. Report incidents to:
Alliance Working for Asian Rights and Empowerment
(949)
597-9766 voice or fax
Declaration
I do NOT give permission to police or other law enforcement personnel to take any photographs of me.
Name: _____________________________________Date:___________________
sign above
If under 18, have parent/guardian co-sign below:
I agree with the above statement.
Parent/guardian: ____________________________ Date: ___________________
sign above