Questions About Your Rights?

Success Stories

Flexing Your Rights During a Medical Emergency

I think the only things I said (and repeated) were “I do not consent to a search”, “Are we free to go to the hospital now?” and “I think I need to contact my lawyer.” When I said “lawyer” the cop backed off. But I just couldn’t believe how astounded he was that I refused the search. … Continued

FAQs

When can police search your car?

Police may ask you a series of questions. They will probably include something like, “You don’t mind if I have a look in your car?” Beware of that question: It’s the legal loophole that the officer wants to snare you in. … Continued

FAQs

How do I report police misconduct?

If you feel that police have violated your rights, or you’ve witnessed misconduct against someone else, do not panic. It’s normal to feel intimidated, but responding to misconduct is an essential step towards protecting yourself and your community from future police abuse. … Continued

Success Stories

Drug Sniffing Dogs vs. Psychedelic Van

I drive a psychedelic van in a conservative area of the country, and your web site information has been extremely helpful. I’ve asserted my rights numerous times and driven away without being searched. One exception was a recent occurrence in Connersville, Indiana. … Continued

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Mapp v. Ohio: The Exclusionary Rule

Mapp v. Ohio 367 U.S. 643, 81 S.Ct. 1684, 6 L.Ed.2d 1081 (1961) Police officers forcibly entered Dollree Mapp’s home in search of a bombing suspect. In the course of the search, officers failed to produce a valid search warrant and denied Mapp contact with her attorney, who was present at the scene. While the […]

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Illinois v. Caballes: Dog Sniffs & You

In Illinois v. Caballes, the Supreme Court ruled that police do not need reasonable suspicion to use drug dogs to sniff a vehicle during a legitimate traffic stop. This decision stems from the case of Roy Caballes, who was pulled over for speeding and subsequently arrested for marijuana trafficking after a drug dog was brought […]

FAQs

What is reasonable suspicion?

While reasonable suspicion does not require hard evidence, it does require more than a hunch. A combination of particular facts, even if each is individually insignificant, can form the basis of reasonable suspicion. … Continued