How should you conduct yourself if approached by law enforcement or immigration officers? The American Civil Liberties Union of Arizona recently released a "rights card" after concerns were raised that some people (mostly Hispanic) are already being targeted under Arizona's stringent immigration law, SB 1070, scheduled to go into effect on July 29,2010. ACLU of Arizona has already received complaints from people who believe that they were racially profiled.

Regardless of your position on immigration, everyone should know what to do - and what not to do - if confronted by a hostile police or immigration officer.  Keep calm - don't fight or threaten an officer.  You won't win disputes there in the street.

You are entitled to refuse to answer questions. Ask for a lawyer.  Ask if you are free to leave.  Do not consent to be searched or have your property searched - but do not resist or impede an officer who searches without your consent.

Keep your hands in plain sight.  Don't reach into a pocket or beneath your clothing without the officer's permission.  Remember, cops are people, too, and their job can be plenty scary.  You may know that you wouldn't hurt anyone - but they don't know that about you.

For More Detailed Information, Download the ACLU's "Rights Card" or View It on Your Mobile Device

You can download a copy of the rights card at: http://www.aclu.org/files/assets/bustcard_eng_20100630.pdf.

Visite la página en español de la ACLU para obtener una copia de la carta aquí: http://www.aclu.org/files/assets/bustcard_spa_20100630.pdf.

You can also view the rights card on your mobile device at: http://mobile.aclu.org/.

Se puede ver la carta en español en su teléfono aquí: http://mobile.aclu.org/espanol/.

Have a Safe and Fun Fourth of July Weekend!

The attorneys and staff of Plattner Verderame, PC, hope you have an enjoyable and safe holiday weekend.  One of our lawyers is on call 24 hours per day (cell phone coverage permitting!).

Visit our website at http://www.plattner-verderame.com/ for more information about our personal injury legal practice.