An officer pulls you over
- You must identify yourself to the police upon request.
- You have the right to ask the police to identify themselves to ensure the person you're speaking to is in fact a police officer.
- Passengers do not have to identify themselves by name or address upon request by a police officer, unless perhaps when the officer is trying to issue you a citation (if you're not wearing a seatbelt). If you choose not to answer, make it clear you're exercising your rights to remain silent and not identify yourself.
- Keep your seatbelt on, even if the car is not in motion.
- Do NOT lie or provide false information, this may give the officers reasonable suspicion that you've committed a crime and lead to your arrest.
The police are at your door
- You do not have to answer any questions.
- You do not have to let them in, unless they have a search warrant. You have the right to ask to see it before letting them in. They can slide it under the door or hold it up to the keyhole for you.
- You do not have to identify yourself — neither do your guests.
- Do NOT lie or provide false information, this may give the officers reasonable suspicion that you've committed a crime and lead to your arrest.
An officer stops you in public
- You do not have to identify yourself, even when asked.
- You have the right to ask why they're questioning you.
- You have the right to ask if you are under arrest and whether you are free to leave.
- If you are not under arrest and otherwise free to leave, you can walk away.
- If you exercise your right to walk away, do not run or draw attention to yourself while doing so.
You have been arrested by the police
- You do not have to identify yourself even when you are under arrest. If you choose not to identify yourself, you should say something along the lines of "I wish to remain silent and consult with an attorney" if desired. It's recommended that you not say or sign anything without a lawyer present.
- Once you've expressed your right to remain silent, you do not have to answer any questions. Make your exercising of this right clear, or they may question you more.
- Be careful not to provide a false name, address, phone number, date of birth, Social Security number or any other information that would be required to establish who you are. You could be charged with an additional crime if you do so.
- You have the right to make a local phone call. If you call a lawyer, the police aren't allowed to listen in on the conversation. Otherwise, they most likely will.
Information courtesy of ACLU Massachusetts. Take note that this advice only applies to those who are subject to these scenarios while in the state of Massachusetts. Otherwise, please consult the proper state's laws and regulations.