Articles
Search & Seizure Protections
The Fourth Amendment of the Constitution protects an individual against unreasonable searches and seizure of his or her person or property. A search may involve an inspection of a person or his or her surroundings or property. Government authorities may seize individuals by stopping them or otherwise restricting their movements. Property is seized when the government takes control of it. Usually, but not always, if a seizure of property is invalid, it is because the seizure was preceded by an invalid search.
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What should I do if a police officer pulls me over?
Remain as calm as possible, and pull over to the side of the road as quickly and safely as you can. Roll down your window, but stay in the car -- don't get out unless the officer directs you to do so. It's a good idea to turn on the interior light, turn off the engine, put your keys on the dash and place your hands on top of the steering wheel. In short, make yourself visible and do nothing that can be mistaken for a dangerous move. For example, don't reach for a purse or backpack or open the glove box unless you've asked the officer's permission, even if you are just looking for your license and registration card. The officer may think you're reaching for a weapon.
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