ACLU Advice: What to Do If You’re Stopped by the Police
(Produced by the American Civil Liberties Union)
The American Civil Liberties Union has recently published this advice for individuals who have been either stopped by police, or recently arrested. The following is a quick reference to remind you what your rights and obligations are, particularly if you’ve been arrested for DUI or DWI in Minnesota.
If you’re stopped, or having an encounter with police, the ACLU says:
- Do not make any statements regarding the incident. Ask for a lawyer immediately upon your arrest.
- Think carefully about your words, movement, body language, and emotions.
- Don’t get into an argument with the police.
- Remember, anything you say or do can be used against you.
- Keep your hands where the police can see them.
- Don’t run. Don’t touch any police officer.
- Don’t resist even if you believe you are innocent.
- Don’t complain on the scene or tell the police they’re wrong or that you’re going to file a complaint.
- Remember officers’ badge and patrol car numbers.
- Write down everything you remember ASAP.
- Try to find witnesses and their names and phone numbers.
- If you are injured, take photographs of the injuries as soon as possible, but make sure you seek medical attention first.
- There’s much more. Visit the ACLU webpage for information on the following:
IF YOU’RE STOPPED IN YOUR CAR
IF YOU’RE ARRESTED OR TAKEN TO A POLICE STATION
IF YOU’RE ARRESTED IN YOUR HOME