If You are Arrested: Your Legal Rights

Program participants have the same rights as a U.S. citizen if accused of a crime:

• You have the right to know the crime you are being charged with.
• You have the right to remain silent and to refuse to answer any questions if you so choose.
• No person accused of a crime may be forced to confess or give evidence against themselves.
• You also have the right not to be searched unless the police officer has a warrant.
• Most importantly, you have the right to be represented by a lawyer, and to be provided with a lawyer to represent you if you cannot afford to hire one.
• Furthermore, you are entitled to be released from jail upon posting of a bail bond (money paid to ensure that the person reports for trial) set by the court while you await trail.
• You are entitled to a fair trial conducted according to all the rules of evidence and court procedures.
• Above all, you are presumed innocent until proven guilty. You do not have to prove your innocence, but rather the prosecution must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

TIP: Be aware that each state has different laws!