Under current law, you do have rights that you should use. This section covers some of your basic rights if you come into contact with the Police.

If you are black, the Black Justice Project (BJP) exists to help in a practical way those Black People who are in contact with the Criminal Justice System. The number for this helpline is (0114) 279 7272

YOUR RIGHTS AT HOME

The Police can search your house without a warrant:

• If you agree (but you can withdraw your agreement at any time)
• To arrest somebody
• After arresting somebody who lives in or is connected with the property.
• To save life and limb or prevent serious damage to the property;

Before starting a search the Police will:

• Explain the reasons for the search; give you a copy of the search warrant, if there is one, and information on your rights.
• Allow you to get someone to be a witness, unless, giving you a warning would frustrate the search or you are absent.
• The Police will leave a copy of any warrant and you should check the details and that it is signed and dated.
• Searches should be conducted with minimum disturbance and only in places where it would be possible to hide the items
• The Police will not leave your premises unsecured if you are not there.

STOP AND SEARCH

STOPPING
The Police can talk to you in the street and ask you questions. You do not have to stop unless the Police are searching you or you are arrested. If the Police ask you your name, address, where you are coming from and where you are going to, it is advisable to answer these questions as they could detain you to find out the answers to these questions.
If you are stopped or searched, you should ask to see the Police officers identity. Ask to see their warrant card, and remember any details. If they are uniformed, remember their numbers (on the shoulders of their jackets/shirts)

RIGHT TO SILENCE
The right to silence has been reduced. You are entitled to say that you will only answer any questions after you have received legal advice.

QUESTIONING
If you are stopped by the Police you should stay calm, be polite and co-operative. If the Police ask you your name, address, where you are coming from and where you are going. It is advisable to answer these questions as they could detain you to find out the answers to these questions.
If the Police want you to “accompany them to the station”, ask if you are being arrested and if so, what for. If they say that you are not being arrested, you do not have to go with them.

RESISTING
If you struggle, swear, shout at the Police or threaten them, you may be committing an offence for which they could arrest you.