KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
A Mens Rea Clothing Justice Educational Resource
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
A Mens Rea Clothing Justice Educational Resource
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER
This information sheet is provided by Mens Rea Clothing Justice for educational purposes only. We are NOT attorneys and this is NOT legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal guidance specific to your situation. This guide is intended to provide general awareness of constitutional rights and practical safety information.
YOUR CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS
🔹 Fourth Amendment - Protection from Unreasonable Searches
You have the right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures. Police generally need a warrant, your consent, or probable cause to search you, your car, or your home.
"I do not consent to any searches."
🔹 Fifth Amendment - Right to Remain Silent
You have the right to remain silent and cannot be compelled to incriminate yourself. You must clearly invoke this right.
"I am exercising my right to remain silent."
🔹 Sixth Amendment - Right to an Attorney
You have the right to have an attorney present during questioning. If you cannot afford one, one will be appointed to you.
"I want to speak with an attorney before answering any questions."
🔹 First Amendment - Right to Record
You generally have the right to record police officers performing their duties in public spaces. This is protected speech under the First Amendment.
RECORDING LAWS IN YOUR STATE
STREETWISE SAFETY GUIDE
🚗 During Traffic Stops
- ✓ Pull over to a well-lit, public area when safe
- ✓ Turn on hazards to show you're complying
- ✓ Keep hands visible on the steering wheel
- ✓ Turn on interior lights at night
- ✓ Don't reach for anything until instructed
- ✓ Inform officer before reaching for documents
💬 Communication Tips
- ✓ Stay calm and speak respectfully
- ✓ Provide ID, registration, insurance when asked
- ✓ You can ask: "Am I free to go?"
- ✓ You can ask: "Am I being detained?"
- ✓ Don't argue or resist physically
- ✓ Note badge numbers and names
📹 Recording Safely
- ✓ Hold phone steady, don't obstruct officers
- ✓ State you are recording (in 2-party states)
- ✓ Back up footage to cloud immediately
- ✓ Don't interfere with police duties
- ✓ Keep a safe distance
- ✓ Know your state's specific laws
⚖️ If Issues Arise
- ✓ File complaints with internal affairs
- ✓ Document everything ASAP
- ✓ Get witness contact information
- ✓ Seek medical attention if injured
- ✓ Contact a civil rights attorney
- ✓ File with civilian oversight boards
💡 Remember: Your safety is the priority. Comply now, contest later. Any rights violations can be addressed through proper legal channels afterward.
RESOURCES IN YOUR STATE
FEDERAL RESOURCES
ACLU National
American Civil Liberties Union
aclu.org | 212-549-2500
NAACP Legal Defense Fund
Civil Rights Legal Advocacy
naacpldf.org | 212-965-2200
National Lawyers Guild
Progressive Legal Organization
nlg.org | 212-679-5100
DOJ Civil Rights Division
Federal Civil Rights Complaints
justice.gov/crt | 202-514-4609
Legal Services Corporation
Free Legal Aid Locator
lsc.gov/find-legal-aid
Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights
Civil Rights Legal Support
lawyerscommittee.org
Mens Rea Clothing Justice
Education • Awareness • Empowerment
This educational resource is provided free of charge by Mens Rea Clothing Justice. We are not a law firm and do not provide legal advice. The information contained herein is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal counsel. Laws change frequently and vary by jurisdiction. Always consult with a licensed attorney in your state for legal advice specific to your situation. Stay safe, stay informed, and know your rights.
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