# Legal advice

**General legal advice for non-violent civil disobedient actions**

* Bring nothing incriminating, or that the police could interpret as. Do not bring drugs, knives, scissors or any other bladed object or tool.
* Bring your ID card.
* Lock your phone with a code,or better: switch it off
* Take something to drink and eat.
* If you require medication, bring it with you.
* When in contact with the police, remain calm and resist provocations.

**In case of arrest...**\
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There are two types of arrest possible in Belgium:

* Administrative arrest (max 12h) - the most likely type for this action
* Judicial arrest (max 48h) - unlikely for this action

What will happen during arrest: 

* The police will take all your personal belongings and might body-search you. This will be done by a person of the same sex as the one registered on your ID.
* The police might interrogate you. Do not give any statement! Anser “No comment” to all questions, including informal ones.
* IMPORTANT **Do not sign any document**
* You can ask for - and have the right to!:
  * water and food, toilet, medical assistance
  * legal assistance (before an interrogation)

PLEASE NOTE Not everyone can, or wants, to take significant risks during actions. That's fine. Getting arrested is NEVER the goal of our actions !\
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For more general legal advice, read[ this hand-out](https://cloud.extinctionrebellion.be/index.php/s/DY6gX9AX6mgLxZM). 

**Legal risks of ‘Freeze’ in the public space**

* Gathering remains prohibited during containment but the legal risk of ‘freezing’ in the public space with a group is low if:
  * physical distance is respected and face masks are worn
  * there is no material damage
* The police may react to your freeze actions by:
  * dispersing you (asking you to move or using force to make you move)
  * administratively arresting you with the accusation of disturbing the public order
  * giving you an administrative (SAC) fine (max 350€) and/or a covid-fine (250€)

!! We will always contest or crowdfund to pay fines together. You will not be alone!!\
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**Legal risks of 'freeze' on a road**

* Same risks as above BUT
* If they accuse you of endangering others (drivers, bikers, etc.) willingly, a severe sanction could be applied that could lead to lengthy and difficult legal proceedings.
* IMPORTANT: don’t block a road in such a way that it creates a danger!

Advice for road blockades:

* Be prepared: don’t block a road if you haven’t made a plan beforehand!
* Use pedestrian crossings: walk on the road at green light and stay on the street when it turns red.
* Make sure cars can (slowly) leave, for instance by keeping one lane open.
* Always make space for emergency services.


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