Know Your Rights: What to Do If You're Stopped by Police

Most teens have no idea what their actual rights are in a police encounter, so here's a basic breakdown. This isn't legal advice, just a starting point, and laws vary by state.

You have the right to stay silent. Beyond giving your name if asked, you generally don't have to answer questions. You can say: 'I'm going to stay silent and would like a lawyer.'

You don't have to consent to a search. Police can pat you down if they suspect a weapon, but you can clearly state, 'I do not consent to a search' — even if they search anyway, saying this preserves your rights later.

You have the right to ask if you're free to leave. If you're not under arrest, you can ask, 'Am I being detained, or am I free to go?' If you're free to go, you can calmly leave.

If you're under 18, your rights don't disappear, but some things differ, like whether a parent needs to be present for certain kinds of questioning. This varies by state, so it's worth checking your local laws.

Stay calm and don't run. Keep your hands visible; don't argue in the moment if you think your rights were violated. That's a conversation for after, with a lawyer, not during the stop.

The bottom line: knowing your rights isn't about distrust; it's about being prepared. A calm, informed response protects you better than either silence out of fear or arguing in the moment.