Table of Contents
Do I have to obey a cop?
In almost every jurisdiction, disobeying a lawful order from a peace officer is a crime. You may be arrested, and if you resist they will use force. If you are arrested, you may find any complaints you make about the officer will be treated less seriously than if you were cooperative.
Can you refuse to cooperate with police?
Most times, the Police make an informal request that you give a 112/Witness Statement. If you completely refuse to cooperate, the Police can issue a formal order in writing signed by an investigating officer (Police Order) to ask you to cooperate. If you disobey a Police Order, you cannot be arrested.
What is the duty to obey a police officer?
In most states, the duty to obey a police officer is not clearly defined. It is generally accepted that if a police officer orders someone to break the law, the person to whom the order is given has the right to refuse that order.
Do police have the authority to order you to do something?
Police do not have unlimited authority to order us around, and we are not universally obligated to obey what police order. Police officers often have no authority to order people to do what the officers want, such as telling people to stop recording them or to leave a certain area.
Can a person disobey a police order without unlawful action?
It is less clear whether individuals can disobey orders that do not require unlawful action, but that a police officer cannot lawfully give. For example, a police officer has lawful authority to tell someone to stop moving if the officer has an objectively reasonable suspicion that the person committed a crime.
What does it mean to obstruct justice?
Obstructing justice is the common term given to laws that prohibit interfering with the police while they are carrying out their duties. But what does it mean to obstruct justice? In most states, the duty to obey a police officer is not clearly defined.