It is important to know your rights and think first about the law before you speak or act.
According to the American Civil Liberties Union, police abuse continues to be a major civil rights problem in the United States, particularly against the poor and disenfranchised.
Today's conservative courts generally support broad police powers at the expense of individual civil rights.
Ukiah and Mendocino County law enforcement are no exception. Illegal stops and arrests happen here, and police statements and "advice" are often misleading.
Educate Yourself
To begin to understand your rights, make a thorough review of these three web pages in the Know Your Rights section you are currently viewing. Visit the websites for the organizations referenced here, and search for others to further your understanding of your rights in various situations.
Carry a Bust Card
Bust Cards are necessarily generalized so authors can address the most common police encounters in the areas in which we work (for example criminal defense, immigration, free speech, etc). Most Bust Cards give you a good sense of your rights and provide a handy reference list which you can review and practice from time to time. If a certain area of law or life is not represented below, search for it online.
Review Jake's Bust Card (left). You may E-mail Jake with a request for a durable, pre-preprinted glossy card, or simply click on the image to download a foldable PDF version for your wallet.
Review the ACLU Bust Card, which includes immigration points, and may be downloaded, printed and carried in a wallet. The ACLU also offers a Spanish Language Bust Card.
Review the National Lawyers Guild Bust Card for similar generalized tips which may be downloaded, printed and carried in a wallet. The NLG also offers a Spanish Language Bust Card.
Review the Americans for Safe Access Bust Card which includes medical marijuana tips which may be viewed and ordered online.
Review the Krages Photographer's Right Bust Card article which may be downloaded, folded up and kept in a wallet or camera bag.
