Quick tips to remember for the day of the protest:
If you are like me and have a bad memory, consider writing a few phone numbers down on your arm in pen (or marker), that way you know who to call in case you are arrested. Also, avoid keeping anything of too much value on you the day of the protest. Remove jewelry, electronics, and cash that you do not wish to chance to theft or lose while being kept in a holding cell.
Find Out What You Are Being Charged With:
Another important part of being arrested is finding out what you are actually being charged with. Once again, sometimes this will be announced to you, but if it is not, or you are not clear on the charge, be sure to ask. This information will be provided to your lawyer eventually, but it is always best to have as much information as possible to provide them with when you make the initial call from jail. There are several charges that often pertain to protesters, and they can range from small fines to extended jail times; your lawyer will have more insight on your specific situation if you can provide the reason that you have been arrested in a timely manner.
Avoid Being Arrested
In any case, it goes without saying that you should avoid being arrested in the first place. This will save you time and money, as well as save you the headache of managing the logistics of being arrested and everything that follows. Be sure to plan ahead, checking out if the protest you are attending will be permitted and where you legally will be allowed to stand and protest. Once you are in attendance at the protest, remember the “peaceful” part. Do not be destructive, disrespectful to law enforcement, or become publicly intoxicated if you plan to take part in the protest.
Peaceful protest is one of the wonderful ways we are allowed to express our beliefs in the United States. Voicing your support for marijuana through gathering with like-minded individuals can be a fun, rewarding experience that leads to change. If you are going to participate in such gatherings, follow our suggested etiquette and you will be prepared for just about anything that may be thrown your way.
Peaceful protest is something that comes up almost daily, being a part of the Millennial generation. Whether it’s a Facebook post, a friend’s personal recollection, or a news article, there are many times that I find myself “tuning” into these gatherings and learning a thing or two.
Cannabis legalization has been a HOT topic, in recent years, for both medicinal and recreational uses. While improvements are being made, 29 states and the District of Columbia allowing medicinal use of marijuana and 8 states and D.C. allowing for recreational use. There are still plenty of places to protest for cannabis legalization.
When participating in such activities, there will usually be some kind of law enforcement present.
This can lead to arrests, even in peaceful situations; you may find yourself headed to jail for your involvement in such a protest. While this is not always avoidable, if you do end up in cuffs here are a few tips for proper arrest etiquette that will help to move the arrest along as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Tips to QUICKLY complete the BORING professional “arrest” process.
Do NOT Resist
When being arrested, it is important to follow directions from the arresting officer. Most times police officers are more likely to work with you if you act in a respectful manner and follow their instructions. If they ask you to put your hands behind your back, do it. Do not mouth off or try to act out in order to avoid the arrest. The further you aggravate the officer, the worse the arrest will go for you, and this can also add extra time and charges to your jail visit.
Ask For A Lawyer (ALWAYS)
One of the first things you should do after being arrested is to inform the officers that you would like a lawyer. This can be clearly stated as soon as you are arrested and as many times as you feel necessary once you are in their custody. Once again, try to bring this point up in a respectful tone and manner. You may be asked if you would like a lawyer, and in every instance should be read your Miranda rights, which will state your right to a lawyer. Avoid divulging too much information (if any) until you speak with proper legal counsel.
Cooperate In Most Instances
You may be asked questions right off the bat, including your name and basic information. Provide the law enforcement officers with correct information. Not giving your real name can lead to more of a headache for you down the line in the form of increased bail costs and longer jail time. If you have current legal affairs, be honest about this as well. It is better to have everything out in the open when it comes to the basics before you progress any further in the arrest process. Leave more in-depth questions for when you have your lawyer present, and politely, but firmly remind the arresting officers that you want a lawyer present before further questioning.
Ask For A Phone Call
You are entitled to a phone call once you have been booked and placed into the system. In some jails, you will not be offered this luxury. Make sure to inquire about a phone call and have a family member or close friend’s phone number memorized for emergencies such as this. It is best to let someone know beforehand if you plan to attend a protest where there is a chance that you may be arrested. This way you can prepare by memorizing the phone number of this alerted friend or family member.
Prepare For The Worst
When participating in a peaceful protest for cannabis rights, it is always good to prepare for the worst. Avoid bringing any illegal substances with you to the gathering, keep a small number of personal items on you, and always carry proper identification. Memorize phone numbers for close friends and family members that you can call in case you need to be bailed out, and if necessary have a lawyer’s phone number memorized as well.y.