General

Police must read you your rights only if you are in custody and being interrogated.

The Fourth Amendment protects you from unreasonable searches and seizures.

The Fifth Amendment protects you from self-incrimination. You can remain silent.

You have the right to an attorney in criminal prosecutions. Ask for one immediately.

The Eighth Amendment prohibits excessive bail, fines, and cruel punishment.

You cannot be tried twice for the exact same crime after a legitimate acquittal.

The government must pay you fair compensation if they take your property for public use.

You cannot be denied the right to vote based on race or gender.

Serving on a jury is a civic duty and employers generally cannot fire you for it.

The government generally cannot censor news or block publication of information.

The government cannot establish a religion or prohibit you from practicing yours.

Citizens have a fundamental right to travel freely between states.

You have the right to request federal agency records through the Freedom of Information Act.

The government cannot take your life, liberty, or property without fair legal procedures.

The 14th Amendment guarantees equal protection under the law for all people.

You have the right to challenge unlawful detention before a judge.

Criminal trials must be open to the public to ensure fairness.

You have the right to cross-examine witnesses who testify against you.

Evidence obtained illegally by police generally cannot be used against you in court.

The Second Amendment protects an individual's right to possess a firearm.