4th Amendment
1968

Terry v. Ohio

392 U.S. 1 (1968)

The Supreme Court ruling that anchors one of the POP phrases. Plain-English summary below, with the precise phrase to invoke and when to use it.

Phrase to invoke
"Am I being detained, or am I free to go?"

When to use this phrase Timing

Any time the officer's intent is unclear and before you answer questions. If the answer is "you are free to go," you may leave. If the answer is that you are being detained, the officer must have reasonable suspicion, and you should still invoke silence.

The ruling in plain English

The Supreme Court held that a police officer may stop and briefly detain a person if the officer has a reasonable, articulable suspicion that the person is involved in criminal activity. In practice, the case defines the line between a voluntary encounter and a detention — and gives you the language to find out which one you are in.

Terry v. Ohio, 392 U.S. 1 (1968)

Use This Phrase During Your Stop

Open Stop Mode on your phone — pinned phrase, recording timer, and live legal context.

Open Stop Mode