This page provides legal advice for protesters. Please feel free to print this off and take it with you to demonstrations.

Legal advice

If you are subject to a STOP AND SEARCH

1. NEVER tell the officer your private details (name, address, date of birth)

ONLY if they reasonably suspect you of committing an offence in law can the police arrest you for not providing your name and address. Demonstrating is not unlawful!

2. NEVER let police take your photograph – ONLY if you have been arrested and brought to a police station can the police use force to take your photograph (as well as your DNA, and fingerprints)

3. QUESTION the Police Officer:

- “Under what power in law are you stopping and searching me? I have a right to privacy”

- “Why do you suspect me (if under terrorism legislation not required)?”

“Can I see some identification and your number?”

“What is your name (under terrorism legislation they do not have to give you this)?”

“What is your police station?”

“Can I have a receipt of the stop and search?”

If they do not answer the questions, you do not have to cooperate any longer, and calmly walk away.

If you are ARRESTED

You do NOT have to provide your name, address, and date of birth but this will delay your release from the police station, and may result in you being denied bail

You have a right to read the PACE code of practice which lists all your rights

You have the right to free legal advice i.e. BIRNBERG PIERCE SOLICITORS 02079110166

You have a right to tell someone that you are under arrest: CALL ARREST SUPPORT 07030383173.

Do NOT sign any statements

After Arrest, if you are INTERVIEWED about the alleged offence(s)

You have a right to the advice and presence of a legal advisor before interview

You have a right to silence. You have a right to say “No Comment” to all questions

Legal Defence and Monitoring Group BM Box HAVEN, London, WC1N 3XX

Gaza Demonstrators Support Campaign www.gazademosupport.org.uk

Network for Police Monitoring www.networkforpolicemonitoring.org.uk