• Even when not legally required to identify yourself, the police may respond negatively if you refuse to do so. Workers have been charged
with obstruction of justice/police officer, public mischief, etc. for refusing to identify themselves or for giving a fake name.
• It is a good idea to note badge numbers, names, licence plates, police car numbers and witnesses. If asked, police must give their name
and badge number (even if you aren’t arrested).
• Police can search you and your stuff and bring you in for questioning if they believe you are committing or about to commit a crime.
• If you are under arrest:
• The police must say why and read you your rights.
• You must provide your legal/correct name, address and date of birth.
• Expect to be charged with a number of things. The police often over charge to increase the chances that one charge will stick.
• The police can search you.
• Only women officers can do a full body search on a person with female genitalia. Insist on an officer appropriate for your search.
• You have a right to a lawyer, even if you have no money. Police must give you the local legal aid number.
• You have the right to remain silent (except for identifying yourself). Say nothing until your lawyer arrives. Anything you say (confession,
informing on others, etc.) may be used against you.
• You can be arrested:
• With or without a warrant. A warrant is one or more pieces of paper that legally allows police to arrest you and/or search your home.
• You have a right to see the warrant. It should have your name on it, a description of the charge, and be signed by a judge.
• If the warrant involves a search of your home, you can ask to see the warrant before letting the police in. You can also follow police
around and make note of what they do and what they take. Your notes could be useful if you believe they did something out of line.
Don’t be intimidated by them.
• If you are formally accused of a crime.
• If you are caught committing a crime (e.g., soliciting in a public place) a warrant is not needed.
• If you have consumed too much alcohol or drugs, or if the police have reason to believe you are committing or about to commit a crime (a
warrant is not needed).
• If there is an outstanding warrant for your arrest.
http://web2.uwindsor.ca/courses/sociology/maticka/star/pdfs/law_matters_prnt.pdf