What Every Immigrant Needs to Know
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The Law and the Role of Police Laws and police exist to make our communities safe. Police are strict and follow the law as it is written. Never bribe a police officer. It is your responsibility to understand and follow the laws. Always talk to police officers with respect.
1) Calling 911
911 responds fast to emergency calls. Dial 911 to: - Report a fire. - Report a crime while it is happening. - Report a car accident. - Get an ambulance for an emergency. Be prepared to give your address and information about the emergency. You can ask for an interpreter. Do not call 911 for something that is not an emergency.
2) Alcohol & Drugs
Drinking alcohol is only legal for adults over 21 years old. When you buy alcohol or enter a bar, they will ask for proof of your age. There are penalties for providing alcohol to people under the age of 21. It is usually illegal to drink alcohol or smoke marijuana in public places away from your home. You can get arrested or deported for selling or having illegal drugs. Using drugs around children can be considered child abuse. If you or someone you know has a problem with drugs or alcohol, you can contact rehabilitation programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA).
If you do not have an attorney, the government will give you an attorney. If an immigration or police officer knocks on the door and asks to enter your home, do not open the door. You only have to let law enforcement officers into your house if they have a search warrant signed by a judge.
5) Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment usually involves repeated behavior that is inappropriate and makes a person uncomfortable. Examples include requests for a date, unwelcome behavior that is physical (a shoulder or back rub), or comments about a person’s appearance.
6) Sexual Assault
Forcing any person to perform any sexual act is a federal crime. This includes people who had sex before. If he or she says “no” and the act continues, it is sexual assault. It is illegal for adults to influence anyone under a certain age to do sexual acts. This minimum age is usually 18.
3) Drinking and Driving
Driving after drinking alcohol can cause serious accidents and problems. Driving after having one or two drinks can get you arrested. Legal drinking limits for driving are different in different states.
4) Know Your Rights
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If a police or immigration officer asks you questions: - Stay calm. - Do not run away. - You do not answer where you were born or how you entered the US. - You can ask to speak with an attorney before you answer any questions or sign any documents. You have the right to remain silent. - If you speak, do not lie. © 2021 © 2021 Intercambio Intercambio Uniting Uniting Communities. Communities.AllAllRights RightsReserved. Reserved.No Noreproduction reproduction isis permissible permissible without withoutprior priorconsent consentfrom fromIntercambio IntercambioUniting Uniting Communities. Communities.
