Know Your Rights

A passionate human rights advocate and community leader, Commissioner Martinez Semrad is committed to uplifting the rights of everyday people and creating an inclusive community for all. It is our responsibility to educate people about their constitutional rights and safeguard against abuses of due process. In times like these, we care for one another. ❤️

For additional Know Your Rights resources, please review the ACLU’s resource library below:

Download KIND Guide: Detention and Bond Checklist

Download FLIC “Know Your Rights” Cards Here

🛑 KNOW YOUR RIGHTS – FLORIDA (FOR UNHOUSED PEOPLE)

🚓 1. What are my rights when approached by police or code enforcement?

You have the right to remain silent. You do not have to answer questions about where you’re staying.
You can ask: “Am I free to go?” If they say yes, you can leave calmly.
If they say no, ask: “Am I being detained? What am I being accused of?”

🏕️ 2. Can I be arrested or ticketed for sleeping outside?

Many Florida cities have anti-camping, loitering, or trespass laws.
You can be cited or arrested, but these laws may be challenged in court if no shelter is available.
You have a right to ask:

“Is there an open shelter bed available right now?”

🧾 3. What can I do if my belongings are taken or destroyed?

Police or city workers must give notice before a sweep or confiscation (except in emergency situations).
You have a right to reclaim your property if it’s taken.
Ask for a receipt and the location to recover items.
You can take photos or ask witnesses to help document what happened.

🏥 4. Can I get healthcare even if I don’t have ID or insurance?

Yes. Emergency rooms must treat you, regardless of ID, insurance, or immigration status.
Florida law (SB 1718) may ask hospitals to collect immigration info, but you can decline to answer.
Many clinics and mobile units offer free or sliding-scale services.

🛏️ 5. Do I have to go to a shelter if told by police or outreach?

No one can force you to go to a shelter.
You have the right to decline, but refusal may affect whether police issue citations for sleeping in public.

🏠 6. What are my rights if I’m in a shelter or transitional housing?

You have the right to fair treatment and safety.
Ask for and read the shelter’s rules and grievance process.
You can file a complaint if you face discrimination, abuse, or denial of services.

📞 7. What should I do if I’m arrested or detained?

Say: “I want to remain silent and speak to a lawyer.”
If you’re unhoused, let the jail know you need help with housing or mental health services.
You have the right to a public defender if you can’t afford a lawyer.

📢 8. Can I panhandle or ask for help in public?

Florida allows passive panhandling in many areas, but soliciting near roads, ATMs, or gas stations may be restricted.
You can ask for help with a sign or verbally, but avoid aggressive approaches or blocking traffic.

🗣️ 9. Can I be removed from public places like parks or libraries?

You have the same right to be in public spaces as anyone else—as long as you follow posted rules.
If asked to leave, you can ask:

“Am I being trespassed? Is there a written notice?”

⚖️ 10. What can I do if my rights are violated?

Write down what happened: date, time, place, badge numbers, witnesses.
Ask for legal help from groups like:
- Southern Legal Counsel (Gainesville-based, statewide rights for unhoused)
- ACLU of Florida
- Florida Legal Services

✅ Tips to Protect Yourself

Keep important documents (ID, medical cards, shelter letters) in a waterproof bag.
Have a “safe contact” who knows where you are.
Document sweeps, injuries, or rights violations when you can.
Know that your dignity and humanity matter—no matter your housing status.