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My Power: Know Your Rights

Police & Protest: Your Rights on the Street

The police have powers. But those powers have limits. When you know the limits, you cannot be bullied into silence.

Stop and Search: The Rules They Hope You Don't Know

Under Section 1 of PACE 1984, a police officer can only stop and search you if they have reasonable grounds to suspect you are carrying prohibited items — drugs, weapons, stolen property, or items intended for criminal damage.

"Looking suspicious" is not reasonable grounds. Walking in a certain area is not reasonable grounds. Being young, male, or from a minority background is not reasonable grounds — though the statistics suggest many officers haven't read the memo.

What Officers MUST Do

  • Identify themselves by name and station (or show warrant card if in plain clothes).
  • State the legal power they are using (e.g., "Section 1, PACE").
  • Explain why they are searching you — the specific grounds.
  • Provide a written record of the search, or tell you how to get one.

Key Areas You Must Understand

Filming the Police

You have an absolute right to film police in a public place. They cannot delete your footage. They cannot seize your phone without arresting you. If they try, record their badge number and report it.

Arrest vs Detention

Detention is temporary and limited. Arrest requires reasonable suspicion of an offence. After arrest you must be cautioned, told the reason, and given access to a free solicitor. Exercise that right — always.

Section 35 Dispersal Orders

Police can order you to leave an area for up to 48 hours. But they must be an Inspector or above, and it must be authorised in writing. Ask for the written authorisation — many bluff without one.

If You Are Arrested

Stay calm. Say "No comment" to every question. This is not suspicious — it is your legal right under Article 6 ECHR. You will be offered a free duty solicitor at the station; always accept. Do not sign anything without legal advice.

Complaints That Actually Work

Internal complaints to the force that wronged you are largely pointless. Go directly to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). If you have video evidence, attach it. Lodge your complaint within 12 months, though sooner is better.

Useful links:

Know Your PACE Codes

The Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE) 1984 has Codes of Practice (A–H). Code A covers stop and search. Code C covers detention. Code G covers arrest. If an officer breaches these codes, their evidence may be excluded from court under Section 78 PACE.

If You Are Stopped by Police

Print this. Screenshot it. Write the key phrases on your arm if you have to. Knowledge is your shield.

Your Stop & Search Survival Guide
Step-by-step actions if you are stopped, searched, or arrested.

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