The Five Words
“I am invoking my rights.”
Say these words. Then say nothing else. These words trigger your Fifth and Sixth Amendment protections. Know them. Say them. Stop there.
The rules — in order
Rule 1 — The five words
Say: "I am invoking my rights." Then stop talking. Those five words trigger your Fifth and Sixth Amendment protections. Anything you say after invoking your rights can still be used against you. Say the words. Say nothing else.
Rule 2 — Do not resist
Do not physically resist an arrest, even if it's unlawful. An unlawful arrest is fought in court, not on the street. Resistance can result in additional charges and physical harm. Comply, state that you are invoking your rights, and say nothing else.
Rule 3 — Ask if you are free to go
If you are not being arrested, you have the right to leave. Say: "Am I being detained or am I free to go?" If they say you're free to go, leave calmly. If they say you're being detained, ask why. Do not answer other questions.
Rule 4 — Ask for a lawyer immediately
If arrested, say: "I want a lawyer." Immediately. Police are required to stop questioning you once you invoke your right to counsel. Do not answer any questions — including questions that seem harmless — until you have spoken with a lawyer.
Rule 5 — Do not consent to searches
Say: "I do not consent to this search." Police may search you anyway if they have a legal basis. Your refusal does not stop a lawful search — but it preserves your legal rights and prevents a consensual search from becoming evidence of cooperation.
Full guide in development
A full state-by-state guide to arrest procedures, rights during booking, how to document police interactions, and the National Lawyers Guild mass defense line is in development. What's here is accurate and sourced — the full guide adds state-specific detail.