KNOW YOUR RIGHTS: TRAFFIC STOPS AND LAW ENFORCEMENT ENCOUNTERS

Regardless of immigration status, every person in the United States is protected by certain constitutional rights. Knowing and exercising those rights calmly and respectfully can help protect you and your family during encounters with law enforcement, ICE, CBP, or other government officials.

If Any Law Enforcement Officer Stops Your Vehicle

Whether the officer is local police, a sheriff's deputy, a state trooper, ICE, or CBP:

1. Pull over safely and promptly.

2. Turn off the vehicle.

3. Keep your hands visible on the steering wheel.

4. Do not argue, resist, flee, or obstruct the officer.

5. Ask calmly:"May I know which agency you represent?"

6. If asked, provide required driving documents when legally required.

7. Do not provide false documents or false information.

8. If you wish to remain silent, say:

   "I am exercising my right to remain silent."

The Fifth Amendment protects the right against self-incrimination, and the Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures.

How to Tell the Difference Between ICE & CBP Officers

ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement)

ICE enforces federal immigration laws.

ICE agents may:

• Wear clothing marked "ICE"

• Wear plain clothes

• Drive unmarked vehicles

Ask:

"Are you with ICE?"

You have the right to know which agency is stopping you.

CBP (Customs and Border Protection)

CBP includes:

• Border Patrol

• Customs Officers

CBP commonly operates:

• Near international borders

• At airports

• At ports of entry

• At certain immigration checkpoints

Florida lies entirely within the federal government's claimed 100-mile border zone because of its coastline.

If You Are Stopped By ICE

If ICE stops you on the road:

You Have the Right to Remain Silent

You generally do not have to answer questions about:

• Where you were born

• Your citizenship

• How you entered the United States

You may say:

"I choose to remain silent."

 Never

• Present fake documents.

• Claim to be a U.S. citizen if you are not.

• Lie to federal officers.

False statements can create serious criminal and immigration consequences.

If You Are Stopped By CBP (Border Patrol)

CBP has broader authority near international borders and at checkpoints, but constitutional protections still apply.

At An Immigration Checkpoint CBP may ask questions about citizenship or immigration status.

You Still Have Rights

You may say:

"I choose to remain silent."

or

"I would like to speak with an attorney."

The Fourth Amendment continues to apply, even in the 100-mile border zone.

Do Not

• Provide false information.

• Provide fraudulent documents.

  
  

Emergency Phrase Card

If you are nervous and do not know what to say:

"I am exercising my right to remain silent.I do not consent to any searches.Am I free to leave? I want to speak with a lawyer"

These statements are generally lawful and help preserve important constitutional rights.

IF YOU DO NOT SPEAK ENGLISH

You Have the Right to Request an Interpreter

If you do not understand English well enough to communicate clearly, tell the officer immediately:

"I need an interpreter." "I do not understand English." "Please provide a qualified interpreter."

Do not guess at questions you do not understand.

Do not sign documents that you cannot read or fully understand.

If an interpreter is provided, listen carefully and ask for clarification if anything is unclear.

Important

• Never agree to statements you do not understand.

• Never sign forms you cannot read.

• Never assume an officer, agent, or another person is translating correctly.

• Ask for an interpreter before answering questions about your identity, immigration status, travel history, or any alleged violation.

If You Are Arrested or Detained

You should clearly state:

"I wish to remain silent until I can speak with a lawyer and an interpreter."

Legal Basis

Federal agencies receiving federal funding are generally required to provide meaningful language access to individuals with limited English proficiency under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and related federal guidance. Courts also recognize that language barriers can affect whether a person's statements, waivers, or consent are knowing and voluntary.

Remember

Language difficulties can create misunderstandings. Requesting an interpreter is not an admission of guilt. It is a way to protect your rights and ensure accurate communication. 

Quick Rights Statement

"I am exercising my right to remain silent. I do not consent to any searches. I want to speak with a lawyer. I need an interpreter. Am I free to leave?"

Important: Legal Regal Ways is recognized by the U.S. Department of Justice and provides DOJ-accredited immigration legal services. The information on this page is intended to help individuals understand their rights. Because every situation is different, specific legal guidance may be necessary for your particular circumstances.