The U.S. Supreme Court issued an 8–1 decision affirming that citizens have a First Amendment right to record police officers performing their duties in public. This ruling is important for anyone who may encounter law enforcement in public spaces and wants to understand their constitutional rights.

The above video breaks down what the Supreme Court decision means, when you are legally allowed to record police, and what you should calmly say if an officer asks you to turn off your camera. Understanding the limits of the law can help you protect your rights while avoiding unnecessary conflict.

 

LAWYER: If ICE Orders You to Stop Filming, Say THIS

ICE tells you to stop filming? Don’t argue. Say THIS exact line.

One wrong sentence can turn “recording” into “interference.” Here’s how to stay safe and keep filming.

If an ICE agent orders you to stop recording, the recording usually isn’t what gets people in trouble. What gets people into trouble is what they say next. In this video, attorney Marc Lopez breaks down the exact script to use so you can document from a safe distance without escalating and without handing them an “obstruction” narrative.

You’ll learn:
✅ The one sentence to say if ICE says “Stop recording”
✅ The 3 phrases that ruin your day (and what to say instead)
✅ What to do if they claim “federal operation — you can’t film”
✅ How to handle the scariest moment: “Give me your phone” or “Delete that video”
✅ The safest move when they order you to back up (hint: zoom exists for a reason)

Key phrases from the video you can screenshot:

“I’m on a public sidewalk, documenting from a safe distance. I’m not interfering. Am I being detained or am I free to leave?”

“I’m in a public place exercising my First Amendment right to record. I’m not interfering.”

“I do not consent to the seizure of my phone. I do not consent to you deleting anything.”

⚠️ Reminder: This is general information, not legal advice. Laws vary by state and situation.

🚔 Check out this video next ⚡️If ICE Pulls You Over, Say These 4 Words Immediately (LAWYER Explains)🚨 • If ICE Pulls You Over, Say These 4 Words I…

Remember, ALWAYS plead the 5th!

If you have any questions, give us a call!
317-632-3642

120 East Market Street
Indianapolis, Indiana 46204
marclopezlaw.com

 

LAWYER: If Cops Tell You To Stop Filming, Say This

🎥 Recording the Police: What NOT to Say!

Recording police officers is legal in all 50 states, but saying the wrong thing can turn your First Amendment right into an arrest for obstruction. In this video, Attorney Marc Lopez breaks down the top 3 phrases you should NEVER say when filming the police—and what to say instead to stay within the law and avoid handcuffs.

🚨 The Three Phrases That Can Get You in Trouble:

“I’m sorry, officer.” – Implies guilt and could be twisted into an admission of interference.

“Is it okay if I film?” – Asking permission undermines your rights and opens you to manipulation.

“I know my rights!” – Escalates tension without helping your legal situation.

✅ What to Say Instead:

“I’m documenting from a safe distance.”

“I’m in a public place exercising my First Amendment rights.”

“Am I free to leave?”

💡 Learn how to:

Record without escalating the situation.

Navigate distance laws (like Indiana’s 25-foot rule).

Safeguard your phone and footage if police threaten seizure.

📌 Key Takeaways:

Never apologize or ask for permission to record—assert your rights clearly.

Always keep a safe distance and comply with reasonable commands.

Know when to ask, “Am I free to leave?” to avoid illegal detention.

00:00 Intro: The Risk of Filming Police
00:24 Why Saying “Sorry, Officer” Is a Mistake
00:43 What to Say Instead: “I’m Documenting from a Safe Distance”
01:19 Record Police From a Safe Distance
02:24 Phrase #2: “Is It Okay If I Film?”
02:48 What to Say Instead: “I’m Exercising My First Amendment Rights”
03:26 Make It Obvious You’re Filming – Don’t Be Secretive
03:41 Phrase #3: “I Know My Rights”
04:19 What to Say Instead: “Am I Free to Leave?”
05:15 Recap: 3 Phrases to Avoid and What to Say Instead

Remember, ALWAYS plead the 5th!

If you have any questions, give us a call!
317-632-3642

Marc Lopez Law Firm
120 East Market Street
Indianapolis, Indiana 46204

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