When police stop or arrest you
What the police must tell you, your right to stay silent, and bail.
Rights of arrested persons
- If you are arrested, the police must tell you why, in a language you understand.
Art. 49(1)(a)
(a) to be informed promptly, in a language that the person understands, of—
Read the full article → - You have the right to stay silent. You do not have to explain yourself.
Art. 49(1)(b)
(b) to remain silent;
Read the full article → - You have the right to call a lawyer, and to talk to people who can help you.
Art. 49(1)(c)
(c) to communicate with an advocate, and other persons whose assistance is necessary;
Read the full article → - You must not be forced to confess or admit to anything.
Art. 49(1)(d)
(d) not to be compelled to make any confession or admission that could be used in evidence against the person;
Read the full article → - You must be taken to court within 24 hours.
Art. 49(1)(f)
(f) to be brought before a court as soon as reasonably possible, but not later than—
Read the full article → - You can ask to be released on bail unless there is a strong reason not to.
Art. 49(1)(h)
(h) to be released on bond or bail, on reasonable conditions, pending a charge or trial, unless there are compelling reasons not to be released.
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- If a police officer stops you, they must tell you why, in a way you understand.
Art. 49(1)(a)
(a) to be informed promptly, in a language that the person understands, of—
Read the full article → - You can stay quiet. You do not have to answer.
Art. 49(1)(b)
(b) to remain silent;
Read the full article → - You can ask to talk to a grown-up who helps you, like a lawyer or a parent.
Art. 49(1)(c)
(c) to communicate with an advocate, and other persons whose assistance is necessary;
Read the full article → - No one is allowed to force you to say you did something wrong.
Art. 49(1)(d)
(d) not to be compelled to make any confession or admission that could be used in evidence against the person;
Read the full article → - You should be taken to a judge very fast, within one day.
Art. 49(1)(f)
(f) to be brought before a court as soon as reasonably possible, but not later than—
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