Know Your Rights | What to Do If You Are Stopped by Police

Be polite and respectful. Never insult, degrade or harass a police officer.
Stay calm and in control of your words, body language and emotions.
Do not get into an argument with the police. Remember, anything you say or do can be used against you. It can give the police a reason to arrest you.
Keep your hands where the police can see them.
Do not run. Do not touch any police officer.
Do not resist arrest, even if you believe you are innocent.
Do not complain or tell the police they’re wrong or that you are going to file a complaint.
Do not make any statements regarding the incident.
Ask for a lawyer immediately upon your arrest.
Remember officers’ badge and patrol car numbers.
Write down everything you remember as soon as possible.
Try to find witnesses and their names and phone numbers.
If you are injured, take photographs of the injuries as soon as possible.
If you feel your rights have been violated, file or call in a complaint with the Internal Affairs Bureau of the agency by which you were arrested.