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Know Your Rights

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David Condrey edited this page Aug 8, 2026 · 2 revisions

Know Your Rights: California and San Diego orientation

Educational information, not legal advice. Laws, orders, local rules, and practices change. If you are in immediate danger, prioritize safety. For legal help, contact qualified legal aid or an attorney.

Interacting with law enforcement

Stay as safe as possible, keep hands visible, and do not physically resist a search. You can ask, “Am I free to go?” If detained, ask why. You generally may remain silent; say clearly that you are exercising that right. If arrested, ask for a lawyer and avoid discussing the facts until counsel is available. Rules differ for drivers, borders, probation, and search conditions. ACLU SoCal’s When stopped by an officer guide is a useful current reference.

Sweeps, citations, and property

Read the City’s current Unsafe Camping Ordinance information and abatement procedure. When safe, record the notice, date, time, location, agency, property-storage instructions, and contact. Move medication, IDs, paperwork, mobility devices, and irreplaceable items first if possible. Ask for an inventory/receipt and disability accommodation. Do not fight a crew. A citation is not proof of guilt; do not ignore its court date or instructions.

Public services and discrimination

Write down what happened, who was involved, witnesses, dates, and requested accommodation. Keep copies privately and avoid posting names or locations. Ask a legal-aid advocate about a complaint to the California Civil Rights Department, California Department of Social Services, or LawHelpCA, depending on the issue.

If rights may have been violated

  1. Get safe; seek medical care for injury.
  2. Preserve notices, receipts, photos, names, and witness contacts safely.
  3. Ask an advocate or legal-aid provider before posting publicly.
  4. Ask about deadlines, property retrieval, accommodations, and complaint routes.
  5. Do not put protected details into On Record or a public discussion.

This page is a quick orientation, not a promise of an outcome. Canonical source: docs/know-your-rights.md.

On Record is a prototype. Do not enter real protected information. Guidance should be reviewed before each pilot or distribution. Return to Home · Report a security issue

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