In the Event of Your Arrest

Being arrested is a serious matter. Under the law you have specific legal rights. These rights apply to you both on and off campus. If arrested by a law enforcement agency, you have the following rights:

1. The right to remain silent, since anything you say can be used against you in court;
   
   
2. The right to complete one telephone call;
   
   
3. The right to speak with an attorney before answering any questions;
   
   
4. If you started to answer questions without a lawyer, you have the right to stop answering questions at any time until you speak with an attorney;
   
   
5. If you cannot afford to hire an attorney, you may request the court to appoint one;
   
   
6. ALL ARRESTS will result in an appearance in court to assure your right to due process in the resolution of any charges made against you.
   
   
7. You need not give your permission or consent to a search of your home or automobile; if you give consent or permission any evidence obtained from the search is admissible against you in court.

If you wish to file a complaint regarding what you feel is an impropriety by the University Police, a citizen complaint form may be requested from the Police Department. If you feel you would like to commend the actions of an officer, you may request a commendation form for that purpose. In either case, you will receive immediate attention and you will receive a response.

Questions on any of the preceding information may be addressed to:

Dean of Students Office
UMass Amherst Police Department
Office of Student Attorney General
Student Legal Services Center

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