Rights questions, answered.

Background reading

You generally have the right to remain silent. Say clearly that you are choosing to stay silent.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Ask whether you are free to leave. If the officer says yes, leave calmly. If not, do not try to force your way past.

Note what the officer said once it is safe. This answer does not decide whether the stop was lawful.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA roadside traffic detention under the Fourth Amendment.

Without independent reasonable suspicion, police may not prolong a traffic stop beyond its traffic-related tasks to conduct a dog sniff.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationPassengers in a vehicle lawfully stopped by police.

Yes. During a lawful traffic stop, an officer may order passengers out of the vehicle while the stop is completed.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationAn investigative street stop and protective pat-down under Terry.

No. A protective frisk requires a reasonable basis to suspect the person is armed and dangerous; a stop alone is insufficient.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA vehicle search justified as incident to a recent occupant’s arrest.

No. A search incident to arrest generally requires access by the arrestee at that time or reason to believe the car contains evidence of the arrest offense.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationPolice crossing the threshold of a suspect’s home to make an arrest.

Absent consent or an applicable emergency exception, police cannot make a routine, nonconsensual home entry to arrest you without a warrant.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA third party’s home searched to find the person named in an arrest warrant.

An arrest warrant for someone else does not by itself authorize a search of your home. A search warrant, consent or another valid exception is generally needed.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationHome entry during pursuit of a person suspected of a misdemeanor.

No. Misdemeanor pursuit does not create an automatic exception; the circumstances must justify urgent entry.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationPolice invoking general community caretaking to justify a home search or seizure.

No. The Supreme Court rejected a freestanding community-caretaking exception for home searches.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationGovernment acquisition of historical location records from a cellular provider.

Obtaining seven days of historical cell-site location information is a Fourth Amendment search, generally requiring a warrant supported by probable cause.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationPolice questioning when a person is in custody for Miranda purposes.

Miranda generally concerns custodial interrogation. Arrest alone does not mean warnings must precede every action or spontaneous statement.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationCustodial police interrogation after Miranda warnings and a waiver.

After a Miranda waiver, an ambiguous remark may not require questioning to stop. Clearly request a lawyer.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationGovernment thermal imaging of a home under the circumstances addressed in Kyllo.

Using technology not in general public use to obtain interior-home information otherwise requiring physical intrusion is a search, ordinarily requiring a warrant.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA police drug-dog investigation on a home’s porch or protected curtilage.

No. Bringing a trained dog into the home’s protected surrounding area to investigate its contents is a Fourth Amendment search.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA search warrant executed under Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 41.

Rule 41 ordinarily requires a warrant copy and receipt to be given to the affected person or left at the search location.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA person seeking return of property through Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 41(g).

Rule 41(g) permits a motion for return of property in the federal district where it was seized.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA federal criminal proceeding in which appointment under the Criminal Justice Act is authorized.

Ask the judge for appointed counsel. The court determines financial eligibility, commonly using the CJA 23 Financial Affidavit.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationAn arrest governed by Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 5.

The defendant must be taken before a judicial officer without unnecessary delay, subject to applicable exceptions.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationFederal criminal defendants whose charges require a Rule 5.1 preliminary hearing.

When Rule 5.1 requires one, it is ordinarily due within 14 days if detained or 21 days if released, measured from the initial appearance.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationFederal judicial proceedings instituted by the United States under 28 USC § 1827.

Yes. The court must use a qualified interpreter when the statutory language or hearing-related need inhibits understanding or communication.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA person released before trial under 18 USC § 3142.

Yes. The judicial officer may amend release conditions, but the existing order remains binding until changed.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationSuspected willful deprivation of federal rights by someone acting under color of law.

Report suspected criminal law-enforcement misconduct to the FBI, including through its tips portal.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose VA for this jurisdiction’s answer.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Virginia law

For this situationA complaint about a Virginia State Police employee’s conduct.

Use Virginia State Police Internal Affairs or a supervisor, including the SP-163 complaint process.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose DC for this jurisdiction’s answer.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

District of Columbia law

For this situationCovered incidents in DC involving MPD or DC Housing Authority Police officers.

OPC generally must receive a completed, signed complaint within 90 days of the incident.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose NY for this jurisdiction’s answer.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

New York law

For this situationWitnesses or affected people reporting NYPD force, abuse of authority, discourtesy or offensive language.

Yes. NYC’s CCRB accepts complaints from witnesses, and an officer’s name or shield number is not required to start.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose NY for this jurisdiction’s answer.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

New York law

For this situationSuspected corruption involving NYPD employees.

NYPD’s Internal Affairs Bureau receives reports of corruption and serious misconduct, including anonymous reports.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Pull over safely. Keep your hands visible.

Once safely stopped, explain before moving your hands to retrieve documents. This is general orientation for a driver, not a passenger, border inspection or immigration checkpoint.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

As the driver, be ready to provide driving documents when requested.

Driving-document requests commonly include a license, registration and insurance. This card does not determine your state’s stop-and-identify rule or immigration-document obligations.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Virginia law

For this situationYou are the driver during a stop on a Virginia highway.

In Virginia, carry your driver’s license or qualifying permit and the vehicle’s physical registration card. Show the requested documents to the officer.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

You can say that you do not consent to a search.

Permission is only one possible basis for a search. Its legality depends on the facts and applicable law. Keep your account of what was said for later review.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Start with what was said and when; agency, badge, or vehicle details if known; witnesses and original recordings.

Keep your own observations separate from what someone told you. These are preparation steps, not a finding about your rights or eligibility.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Most employees covered by federal overtime rules who are not exempt must receive at least 1½ times their regular pay rate for hours worked over 40 in a workweek.

Compare your hours for each workweek with your pay statement. A two-week total can hide a week of unpaid overtime.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

You can contact the US Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division. Its complaint page explains how to contact an office and what information to gather.

Have your employer’s name, work location, dates, hours and pay details ready. Keep copies of your records.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Federal wage law prohibits retaliation for protected complaints or participation in an investigation. Keep a record of threats, changed hours or other treatment after you raise the issue.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationAn ordinary short rest break offered by an employer to an employee covered by federal minimum-wage and overtime rules.

For covered, nonexempt employees, employer-provided short rest breaks, usually 5 to 20 minutes, generally count as paid work time and toward overtime.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA covered, nonexempt employee who actually performed compensable overtime, including work the employer knew or had reason to know about.

A rule requiring advance approval does not erase pay owed for compensable overtime the employer required or permitted. Coverage, exemption status, and actual hours still matter.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationEmployee tips at a workplace covered by the Fair Labor Standards Act, including shared jars and mandatory tip pools.

A manager or supervisor who meets the federal duties test cannot keep other employees’ tips or receive money from their tip pool, even if the employer pays everyone the full minimum wage.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA uniform required by the employer, the nature of the work, or law, where federal wage requirements cover the employee.

For a covered employee, employer-required uniform costs cannot reduce pay below the federal minimum wage or cut into required overtime compensation. Requiring cash reimbursement does not avoid those limits.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationAn employee protected by federal pumping-break requirements during the first year after the child’s birth, including eligible employees working remotely.

For employees protected by the PUMP Act, the employer must provide a functional pumping space other than a bathroom, shielded from view and free from intrusion, for one year after childbirth.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationAn FMLA-eligible employee whose covered employer requested certification for the employee’s or a qualifying family member’s serious health condition.

An employer generally must allow at least 15 calendar days for requested medical certification. If diligent, good-faith efforts cannot meet that deadline, the employee is entitled to additional time.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA worker using qualifying FMLA leave for part of a scheduled day, rather than an entire workweek.

An employer generally may count only FMLA leave actually taken. It must use the smallest leave increment it allows for other leave, and that increment cannot exceed one hour.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationAn eligible employee of a covered employer who cannot work because of a chronic condition meeting the federal FMLA serious-health-condition rules.

A qualifying chronic serious health condition can support FMLA leave for an episode of incapacity even when the absence is shorter than three days and no provider visit occurs during that episode.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationWorkers or their representatives reporting hazards at workplaces covered by federal OSHA or an OSHA-approved state plan.

You can request that OSHA keep your name confidential when filing a workplace safety or health complaint. Describe the serious hazard and the workplace precisely.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA worker covered by federal OSH Act retaliation protection who experienced adverse action for protected workplace safety activity.

A retaliation complaint under section 11(c) of the federal Occupational Safety and Health Act generally must be filed within 30 days after you learn of the adverse action.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA currently pregnant employee or applicant seeking these simple adjustments from an employer covered by the PWFA, generally with at least 15 employees.

Under the PWFA regulation, an employer cannot require supporting documentation when a currently pregnant worker requests water, food or restroom breaks, carrying drinking water, or sitting or standing as needed.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA private-sector or state/local government worker considering an EEOC charge while another process investigates the same discrimination concern.

Generally, no. An internal grievance, union process, arbitration, or mediation does not extend the EEOC charge deadline, usually 180 days or 300 days where qualifying state or local law applies.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose California to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

California law

For this situationA directly employed California private-sector office worker who is fired, outside special industry rules.

For an ordinary covered employee who is discharged, earned wages, including accrued unused vacation, are due immediately.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose California to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

California law

For this situationA California private-sector employee who quits an ordinary job without a fixed-term written employment contract.

For a covered employee without a written contract for a definite term, final wages and earned unused vacation are due within 72 hours after quitting without at least 72 hours’ notice.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose California to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

California law

For this situationAn ordinary California private-sector employee who works at least 30 days for the same employer within a year and is outside a statutory exemption.

The annual use allowance must generally be at least 40 hours or five days, whichever is greater, once the leave has been earned or provided upfront.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose New York to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

New York law

For this situationA New York private-sector employee receiving covered pregnancy-related healthcare, regardless of employer size.

Yes. Covered private-sector employees have 20 hours of paid prenatal leave in a 52-week period, including new and part-time employees. This leave does not need to accrue first.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose New York to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

New York law

For this situationAn ordinary private-sector employee seeking earned wages for work performed in New York, rather than a sales-commission or independent-contractor dispute.

New York Department of Labor uses Labor Standards Complaint Form LS223 for covered unpaid-wage complaints. Its intake rules exclude some workers and disputes.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose Maryland to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Maryland law

For this situationA Maryland employee seeking earned wages after quitting or being discharged.

Earned wages are due by the regular payday on which they would have been paid if you had stayed employed.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose Maryland to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Maryland law

For this situationAn employee paid for work in Maryland, including a worker receiving an electronic pay statement.

Yes. For each payday, a covered employer must provide a written or online statement showing the pay period, rates, gross and net pay, itemized deductions and required employer details.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose the District of Columbia to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

District of Columbia law

For this situationA non-student adult employee working entirely in DC for a small private office, rather than an independent contractor or another excluded worker.

A covered employee at an employer with 24 or fewer employees earns at least one hour of paid sick and safe leave per 87 hours worked, up to three days per calendar year.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose the District of Columbia to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

District of Columbia law

For this situationA directly employed DC private-sector worker who was discharged, rather than a worker resigning or pursuing a temporary-agency joint-employer claim.

A covered discharged employee must generally receive earned wages no later than the following working day.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationPrivate-sector employees protected by the National Labor Relations Act.

Employees covered by the NLRA generally may discuss wages with coworkers. A rule forbidding those discussions can violate the Act even without a union.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationNLRA-covered employees using social media or messages to address shared workplace concerns.

Online discussion aimed at group action over working conditions can be protected concerted activity, including at a nonunion workplace.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationCovered private-sector employees bringing a shared scheduling concern.

The NLRA protects covered employees acting together to improve hours and other working conditions. Union membership is not required.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationUnion-represented employees protected by the NLRA during potentially disciplinary questioning.

A union-represented employee may request representation at an investigatory interview they reasonably believe could lead to discipline.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationNLRA-covered employees distributing their own union information.

Covered employees generally may distribute union literature during nonworking time in nonworking areas.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationEmployees alleging employer or union violations of the NLRA.

An unfair labor practice charge generally must be filed within six months of the unlawful conduct. Contact the NLRB promptly.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationWorkers facing discriminatory document practices during Form I-9 or E-Verify.

Employers may not demand particular or extra I-9 documents because of citizenship status or national origin when the worker presents an acceptable choice of genuine documents.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationApplicants to Title VII-covered employers, generally with at least 15 employees.

An accent may justify a job decision only where effective spoken English is required and the accent materially interferes with job performance. Customer prejudice is not enough.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationWorkers covered by Title VII whose employer restricts language use.

An English-only rule must be justified by business necessity under EEOC guidance. A blanket rule covering breaks raises different concerns from a narrowly justified safety instruction.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationApplicants to employers covered by Title VII.

A covered employer cannot apply criminal-record screening differently because of race or national origin. A criminal record does not remove Title VII protection.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationApplicants to employers covered by GINA, generally with at least 15 employees.

GINA generally prohibits covered employers from requesting genetic information, including family medical history, for hiring decisions.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationApplicants protected by the ADA at the preoffer stage.

A covered employer generally cannot ask disability-related questions or require a medical examination before a conditional offer. It may ask about ability to perform job functions.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationQualified applicants or employees of ADA-covered employers.

An accommodation request can use ordinary language. You need to explain that a workplace change is needed for a medical reason; legal terminology is unnecessary.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationMedical information obtained by an ADA-covered employer through protected inquiries or accommodation processes.

ADA medical information generally must remain confidential. Coworkers ordinarily are not entitled to your diagnosis or an explanation that reveals a disability.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationQualified employees with disabilities at ADA-covered employers.

A covered employer may need to consider additional finite leave as an ADA accommodation instead of automatically applying a leave cap. Undue hardship remains a defense.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationQualified workers at ADA-covered employers denied opportunities because of a known association.

The ADA prohibits adverse decisions based on association with a person with a disability, including stereotypes about a caregiver’s reliability.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationWorkers at employers covered by Title VII reporting customer harassment based on a protected characteristic.

An employer can be responsible for discriminatory customer harassment it knew or should have known about and failed to address promptly and appropriately.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationApplicants or employees at Title VII-covered employers.

Yes. Federal workplace sexual-harassment protection can apply when the harasser and victim are the same sex.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationWorkers age 40 or older at employers covered by the ADEA, generally with at least 20 employees.

The ADEA generally prohibits denying training because a worker is 40 or older at a covered employer.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationWorkers comparing pay for substantially equal work by men and women in the same establishment.

No. Job content, rather than titles, determines whether work is substantially equal under the Equal Pay Act.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationWorkers participating in protected EEO activity at a covered employer.

Federal EEO retaliation protection can cover witnesses and workers answering questions in a discrimination investigation, not just the original complainant.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationCivilian employees returning from qualifying uniformed service with USERRA reemployment eligibility.

For service under 31 days, USERRA generally requires return for the first full scheduled work period on the next full day after safe travel home and eight hours of rest.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationWorkers reemployed with USERRA rights under a covered retirement plan.

For a person reemployed under USERRA, qualifying military service generally counts for pension participation, vesting, and benefit accrual under the Act’s rules.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationWorkers and eligible dependents covered by an employment health plan before qualifying military absence.

USERRA can allow continued employer-plan coverage for up to 24 months or the service period plus the allowed reemployment-application period, whichever is shorter.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationFMLA-eligible workers at covered employers facing an unforeseeable qualifying family emergency.

Unexpected qualifying leave requires notice as soon as possible and practical, not an impossible 30-day warning.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationEligible employees taking protected FMLA leave with employer group health coverage.

Covered group health benefits must generally continue on the same terms during FMLA leave, including your usual contribution obligation.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationEmployees returning within protected FMLA leave entitlement.

FMLA generally requires restoration to the same job or an equivalent one with equivalent pay, benefits, and other terms.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationFMLA-eligible employees of covered employers preparing for adoption or foster placement.

Eligible employees can use FMLA for required activities connected to an adoption or foster placement before the placement occurs.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationEligible employees seeking leave to care for someone who stood in loco parentis to them as children.

A person who acted as your parent when you were a child can qualify as a parent under FMLA even without a biological or legal parent relationship.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationEligible employees with a spouse, child, or parent on qualifying covered active duty or notice of such duty.

Qualifying exigency leave can cover certain childcare arrangements and urgent needs arising from a covered family member’s foreign deployment.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationNonexempt workers required to attend ordinary employer job training.

For covered nonexempt employees, ordinary job training is excluded from paid time only when all required conditions are met, including voluntary attendance and no job relation.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationNonexempt employees traveling between assigned work locations during their workday.

Travel between jobsites as part of the workday generally counts as hours worked for covered nonexempt employees.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationCovered nonexempt employees under the ordinary 40-hour workweek rule.

The ordinary FLSA overtime rule applies separately to each workweek. Averaging hours across two or more weeks is generally not permitted.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationFourteen- and fifteen-year-old workers in covered nonagricultural jobs.

In ordinary covered nonagricultural employment, 14- and 15-year-olds generally may work no more than 18 hours in a school week and three hours on a school day.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationWorkers at workplaces covered by OSHA or an approved state plan.

OSHA requires employers to provide prompt access to toilets and avoid unreasonable restrictions on restroom use.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Start with hours and pay statements; relevant messages and policies; a timeline of the treatment.

Keep your own observations separate from what someone told you. These are preparation steps, not a finding about your rights or eligibility.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose Virginia to read this guide. We have not researched this question for other states.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Virginia law

For this situationAn employee seeking earned wages for work in Virginia. Contractor disputes and some types of pay need a different review.

For Virginia work, final earned wages are due by the payday that would have applied if employment continued. You can make a wage claim with the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI).

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Use a licensed attorney or a representative accredited by the Department of Justice who works through a recognized organization.

Check the person’s credentials before paying. A person who only prepares forms cannot necessarily choose a legal strategy for you.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

No. In the United States, being a notary or calling yourself a notario does not make someone an immigration attorney.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Be cautious of anyone promising a guaranteed result or special access to immigration officials. Verify their credentials and the process through official sources before paying.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA case in the US immigration court system, not a USCIS benefits application.

Use EOIR’s official case-information system, then compare it with your hearing notice. Court notices are the official source; an online result is not permission to miss a hearing.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA person with a pending immigration court case who needs to update contact information.

Submit Form EOIR-33/IC to your immigration court within five working days of a contact-information change. File a separate form for each person with an affected pending case.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA non-lawyer offering services as a DOJ-accredited representative.

No. Partial accreditation covers DHS matters. A DOJ-accredited representative needs full accreditation to represent you before immigration court or the Board of Immigration Appeals.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationProfessional misconduct by an attorney or accredited representative in EOIR proceedings.

For misconduct before EOIR, use Form EOIR-44 and its instructions to report an attorney or accredited representative. Include specific events and supporting copies.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA respondent or witness in EOIR removal proceedings.

Yes. Immigration court provides interpretation at government expense when English proficiency is inadequate to understand and participate in removal proceedings.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationDocuments filed as evidence in an EOIR immigration court case.

A foreign-language court filing must include a certified English translation.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationAn English affidavit or declaration from a person not fluent in English, filed in immigration court.

The declaration must be read to you in a language you understand, with a certificate confirming interpretation and your understanding before signing.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA respondent requesting postponement of an EOIR hearing.

No. You must attend as scheduled unless the judge grants the continuance.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA respondent seeking to move an EOIR case to another immigration court.

No. A change of venue requires a motion and the immigration judge’s approval.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA respondent with a scheduled EOIR hearing seeking an earlier date.

You can file a Motion to Advance explaining why an earlier hearing is needed. Approval is discretionary.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA party planning witness testimony at an individual immigration court hearing.

You may request video testimony by written motion explaining why the witness cannot appear in person. The immigration judge decides.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA party filing documents in an EOIR immigration court case.

Usually yes. When all parties use ECAS for the filing, the system performs service; otherwise an identical copy must be served separately.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA paper filing with an EOIR immigration court.

The court generally uses receipt, not mailing, as the filing date.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA party unable to meet an immigration judge’s filing deadline.

A judge can extend certain court-set deadlines on motion. The deadline changes only when the motion is granted.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA party seeking their own active EOIR record.

No. A party or legal representative can arrange access to the active case’s Record of Proceedings through court or Board staff.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA party in an electronically recorded EOIR hearing.

Yes. The judge should summarize an authorized off-the-record discussion on the record, and the parties may correct or supplement that summary.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA final EOIR immigration judge order when jurisdiction has not moved to the Board on appeal.

A Motion to Reopen asks the judge to consider material new facts or evidence that were unavailable and could not have been presented earlier.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA party seeking reconsideration by an immigration judge who still has jurisdiction.

Yes. Reconsideration identifies legal or factual error in the existing record; reopening introduces qualifying new facts.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationAn in-absentia order in removal proceedings, not older exclusion or deportation proceedings.

The usual route to rescind that order is a Motion to Reopen before the immigration judge, not a direct BIA appeal.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationAn appealable immigration judge decision for which appeal was reserved.

Form EOIR-26 generally must reach the BIA within 30 calendar days after an oral decision or the mailing of a written decision.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA respondent at the end of immigration court proceedings.

A knowing, voluntary waiver generally makes the decision final and prevents a later appeal.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA party seeking to resume an administratively closed immigration court case.

EOIR specifies a Motion to Recalendar for an administratively closed case.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA party correcting a previously filed EOIR court document.

The judge may consider a Motion to Amend in limited situations, including correction of a clerical filing error.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA person needing disability access for a scheduled USCIS appointment.

USCIS has a disability-accommodation request process for interviews, biometrics and oath ceremonies.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA USCIS notice, document or card with a suspected agency-created typographic error.

USCIS’s Typographic Error e-request lets you report incorrect information caused by USCIS.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA person with a USCIS biometrics appointment notice.

USCIS permits most biometrics rescheduling requests through a USCIS online account; the Contact Center handles requests the online tool cannot process.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA person seeking original documents retained in a USCIS file.

Form G-884 requests return of original documents submitted for an immigration or citizenship benefit.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA naturalized US citizen whose certificate was lost, stolen or destroyed.

No. USCIS Form N-565 is the replacement-document application; losing the certificate does not undo naturalization.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA naturalization applicant considering a disability exception to English or civics testing.

No. Form N-648 addresses a medical exception from English or civics requirements; an accommodation helps you participate in the test.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Start with notices and case numbers; the agency involved; dates and relevant documents.

Keep your own observations separate from what someone told you. These are preparation steps, not a finding about your rights or eligibility.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Public streets, sidewalks and parks have strong free-speech protections. Government can still set lawful limits on time, place and how an event is carried out.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Not always. Some events, especially marches that block traffic or large gatherings, may need a permit. Check the rules for the specific location and event.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Yes. Counterprotesters also have free-speech rights. Disagreement does not remove someone’s right to express their view.

Avoid physical confrontation. Document threats or interference from a safe place.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA First Amendment demonstration on National Mall and Memorial Parks land managed by NPS.

NPS generally requires a permit for demonstrations with more than 25 people on the parkland it manages there. Smaller groups must still meet the permit exception’s conditions.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationFirst Amendment activity under 36 CFR § 2.51 at NPS parks outside the National Capital Region.

A group of 25 or fewer may generally use a designated First Amendment area without a permit if it satisfies the applicable equipment and use limits.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA qualifying NPS First Amendment activity under its demonstration rules.

NPS does not impose cost recovery, insurance, bonding or financial-expenditure conditions for covered First Amendment activities; participants are not charged entrance fees for that activity.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA completed NPS demonstration permit application governed by § 2.51.

A permit under 36 CFR § 2.51 must be issued or denied within 10 business days after a complete application is received.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationExpressive leafleting in Yellowstone’s designated First Amendment areas.

Noncommercial printed material may be distributed in designated First Amendment areas, subject to the park’s applicable permit and use rules.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose DC for this jurisdiction’s answer.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

District of Columbia law

For this situationA spontaneous First Amendment assembly on a District street, sidewalk, public way or District park.

DC’s assembly law exempts immediate, spontaneous expression responding to a public event from advance notice and plan approval.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose DC for this jurisdiction’s answer.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

District of Columbia law

For this situationMPD dispersal of an assembly under DC Code § 5-331.07.

MPD must provide understandable warnings, reasonable time and a clear safe exit route. Without imminent injury or significant property damage, at least three warnings, two minutes apart, are required.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose DC for this jurisdiction’s answer.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

District of Columbia law

For this situationMPD response to particular unlawful actors at a DC First Amendment assembly.

To the extent reasonably possible, MPD must address the particular people acting unlawfully instead of dispersing an entire assembly.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose DC for this jurisdiction’s answer.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

District of Columbia law

For this situationMedia representatives reporting near an assembly handled by DC MPD.

MPD must give media reasonable access, at least the access available to the general public, and reasonably accommodate reporting equipment.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose DC for this jurisdiction’s answer.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

District of Columbia law

For this situationDC assembly-plan denials, pre-event revocations or conditions the applicant finds objectionable.

Yes. An applicant may appeal to the Mayor or the Mayor’s designee, who must decide expeditiously before the planned start and explain the decision in writing.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationAn organized demonstration proposed on US Capitol Grounds.

No. Capitol Grounds use a separate US Capitol Police application and designated-area system.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose NY for this jurisdiction’s answer.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

New York law

For this situationA meeting covered by New York’s Open Meetings Law.

No. An open meeting must be open to photography, broadcasting and audio or video recording, subject to reasonable equipment and personnel rules.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose NY for this jurisdiction’s answer.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

New York law

For this situationMinutes required by New York Public Officers Law § 106.

No. Open-meeting minutes must be available within two weeks; executive-session action minutes within one week, subject to lawful redactions.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose NY for this jurisdiction’s answer.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

New York law

For this situationEntry into executive session under New York Public Officers Law § 105.

It must first take a majority vote of its total membership in an open meeting on a motion identifying the general subjects within a permitted category.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose VA for this jurisdiction’s answer.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Virginia law

For this situationVirginia public-body meetings required to be open under § 2.2-3707.

No. Anyone may record an open portion, though the body may regulate equipment placement and use to prevent interference.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose VA for this jurisdiction’s answer.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Virginia law

For this situationNotification requests under Virginia Code § 2.2-3707(F).

Yes. Any person may file an annual written request for direct meeting notification with the public body.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose MD for this jurisdiction’s answer.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Maryland law

For this situationA suspected Maryland Open Meetings Act violation by a covered public body.

Send a signed, detailed complaint to the Open Meetings Compliance Board, identifying the body, meeting and suspected violation.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose MD for this jurisdiction’s answer.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Maryland law

For this situationPublic attendance at a Maryland meeting covered by the Open Meetings Act.

Generally no. The Act primarily guarantees observation; it does not require ordinary public-comment periods, apart from objections to closing a session.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose CA for this jurisdiction’s answer.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

California law

For this situationAttendance at an open California local legislative-body meeting under Government Code § 54953.3.

No. Under the Brown Act, attendance at a covered local legislative-body meeting cannot depend on registering your name or providing personal information.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose CA for this jurisdiction’s answer.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

California law

For this situationAgenda-item comments at covered California local legislative-body meetings under § 54954.3.

The Brown Act generally requires an opportunity to comment before or during consideration of the item.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose CA for this jurisdiction’s answer.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

California law

For this situationOpen local legislative-body meetings under California Government Code § 54953.5.

Yes, unless the body reasonably finds the recording would persistently disrupt proceedings through noise, lighting or obstructed views.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Start with location and any posted restrictions; your account and witnesses; original photos or recordings.

Keep your own observations separate from what someone told you. These are preparation steps, not a finding about your rights or eligibility.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Use the provider’s official recovery process. If you can sign in, change your password and check account recovery and forwarding settings.

Secure the email account first if other services send password-reset links there. Let contacts know if someone sent messages pretending to be you.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Turn on two-step sign-in in your account settings. It adds a second check, so a stolen password alone is less useful to someone trying to get in.

Start with email, banking and other sensitive accounts. Keep recovery codes somewhere safe and separate.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA parent of a child under 13 using a commercial app or site directed to children, or an operator with actual knowledge it collects children’s information.

Yes, when COPPA covers the operator. Parents can review their child’s collected personal information, ask for deletion and refuse further collection or use.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationCredit-report information caused by identity theft, rather than an ordinary disagreement over a debt you incurred.

Yes. A qualifying identity-theft block request requires the reporting company to block fraudulent information within four business days after receiving the required material.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationSomeone who is, or reasonably suspects they may be, affected by identity theft and wants an initial fraud alert.

No. Contact one nationwide credit bureau for a free initial fraud alert; it must notify the other two. The alert lasts one year and can be renewed.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationEmail whose primary purpose is commercial advertising or promotion, covered by the federal CAN-SPAM Act.

Under CAN-SPAM, a covered commercial sender must honor an opt-out request within 10 business days. It cannot charge a fee or require personal information beyond your email address to process the request.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA US citizen or lawful permanent resident seeking correction of their own DOJ record in a covered Privacy Act system of records.

The Privacy Act permits requests to amend covered DOJ records about yourself, subject to exemptions. Identify the record, the correction you want and why it is inaccurate, irrelevant, outdated or incomplete.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA breach of unsecured protected health information for which a HIPAA-covered provider or health plan owes individual notice.

For a reportable HIPAA breach, the covered organization generally must notify affected individuals without unreasonable delay and no later than 60 days after discovery.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA financial institution’s notice offering a choice about sharing nonpublic personal information with nonaffiliated third parties.

Yes. You can generally exercise an available federal financial-privacy opt-out later, even if you did not choose it when you opened the account.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA covered financial affiliate using another affiliate’s eligibility information to make marketing solicitations.

When the federal affiliate-marketing rule requires an opt-out, the election must last at least five years. The institution may offer a longer or permanent period.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationSuspected improper disclosure of protected calling information by your telephone provider.

Telecommunications carriers and interconnected VoIP providers have federal duties to protect customer proprietary network information, which includes details about your calls.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationPersonally identifiable information about a cable subscriber maintained by a covered cable operator.

Federal cable privacy law gives subscribers access to covered personal information at reasonable times and a convenient place, with a reasonable opportunity to correct errors.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA covered video rental provider disclosing information identifying a consumer and the videos obtained.

For disclosures relying on consent under the Video Privacy Protection Act, written or electronic consent must be distinct from other legal or financial obligations.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationAn online service collecting information from children under 13 based on school authorization.

No. A school may consent for parents under COPPA only in the educational context, for the school’s use and benefit, without another commercial purpose.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA child under 13 participating in an online activity covered by COPPA.

A covered operator cannot condition a child’s participation in a game or similar activity on providing more personal information than reasonably necessary for that activity.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA covered online service collecting photos or sufficiently precise location from a child under 13.

It can cover both. A photo containing a child’s image and geolocation sufficient to identify a street and city are personal information under COPPA.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Safety & practical steps

For this situationA threatening message that suggests violence or other criminal intimidation.

Use emergency services for immediate danger. A specific threat can also be reported to local law enforcement and the FBI; a platform report is a separate step.

Practical guidance, not a statement of a legal right or a guarantee of an outcome. Legal review pending.

Safety & practical steps

For this situationA minor facing threats tied to sexual images or demands for more sexual material.

Get help from a trusted adult and report the extortion. Paying or sending more images does not ensure the offender will stop or withhold the material.

Practical guidance, not a statement of a legal right or a guarantee of an outcome. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA qualifying nonconsensual intimate depiction, including a covered digital forgery, on a covered platform.

Under the TAKE IT DOWN Act, covered platforms must remove qualifying material within 48 hours after a valid removal request and make reasonable efforts to remove known identical copies.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Safety & practical steps

For this situationSuspected device monitoring by a partner or another person with access to your phone.

Consider your safety first. Removing monitoring software or changing access can alert an abusive person, so seek help from a safer device before making changes.

Practical guidance, not a statement of a legal right or a guarantee of an outcome. Legal review pending.

Safety & practical steps

For this situationAn unexpected toll-payment text demanding information or urgent payment.

Do not use the text’s link. Check through the toll agency’s official website or a number you already trust; scammers commonly impersonate toll services.

Practical guidance, not a statement of a legal right or a guarantee of an outcome. Legal review pending.

Safety & practical steps

For this situationA suspicious QR payment code on a parking meter or parking sign.

Check the parking operator through an independent trusted channel, then contact your payment provider about the suspected scam. A replacement sticker can send payment to an impostor.

Practical guidance, not a statement of a legal right or a guarantee of an outcome. Legal review pending.

Safety & practical steps

For this situationAn unexpected browser warning or caller claiming urgent computer repairs are needed.

No. A security warning that tells you to call a phone number is a common tech-support scam. Do not grant remote access or pay the caller.

Practical guidance, not a statement of a legal right or a guarantee of an outcome. Legal review pending.

Safety & practical steps

For this situationA personal computer or household files apparently encrypted by ransomware.

No. The FBI does not support paying a ransom because payment does not guarantee recovery and can encourage further attacks.

Practical guidance, not a statement of a legal right or a guarantee of an outcome. Legal review pending.

Safety & practical steps

For this situationUsing a public network to browse or pay on a website.

No. HTTPS helps protect information in transit, including on public Wi-Fi, but a scam website can also use encryption.

Practical guidance, not a statement of a legal right or a guarantee of an outcome. Legal review pending.

Safety & practical steps

For this situationA breach notice involving a password reused across personal accounts.

Secure both, and every account using the same or a similar password. Attackers can try leaked credentials on unrelated services.

Practical guidance, not a statement of a legal right or a guarantee of an outcome. Legal review pending.

Safety & practical steps

For this situationUnexpected loss of mobile service accompanied by a SIM or account-change notice.

Yes. An unauthorized SIM swap can redirect calls and text verification codes. Contact your carrier immediately through a trusted channel.

Practical guidance, not a statement of a legal right or a guarantee of an outcome. Legal review pending.

Safety & practical steps

For this situationA marketplace buyer or someone responding to a lost-pet post who asks for a texted code.

No. A scammer can use a verification code to link an account, including Google Voice, to your phone number.

Practical guidance, not a statement of a legal right or a guarantee of an outcome. Legal review pending.

Safety & practical steps

For this situationA bill payment made through an unfamiliar search result instead of the company’s verified site.

Contact the utility through the address on your bill and verify the payment. Search ads can lead to impersonators or third-party services with extra fees and delayed payments.

Practical guidance, not a statement of a legal right or a guarantee of an outcome. Legal review pending.

Safety & practical steps

For this situationA personal smart speaker or device using an internet-connected voice assistant.

Review the assistant’s recording controls. Many services let you delete recordings, set automatic deletion, or limit human review; available controls depend on the product.

Practical guidance, not a statement of a legal right or a guarantee of an outcome. Legal review pending.

Safety & practical steps

For this situationA consumer internet-connected camera with previously shared remote access.

Review all authorized users, shared links and account sessions, then change exposed credentials. Removing one display name may not end every route into the account.

Practical guidance, not a statement of a legal right or a guarantee of an outcome. Legal review pending.

Safety & practical steps

For this situationA personal phone app requesting location access beyond what you want to share.

You can review and limit the app’s device permissions, including location. Whether browsing still works depends on the app; ask why that access is necessary.

Practical guidance, not a statement of a legal right or a guarantee of an outcome. Legal review pending.

Safety & practical steps

For this situationA personal phone being sold, donated, recycled or traded in.

No. Back up what you need, follow the manufacturer’s reset instructions, and remove removable SIM or memory cards before transferring the phone.

Practical guidance, not a statement of a legal right or a guarantee of an outcome. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA bank decision based on a checking-account reporting company such as ChexSystems or Early Warning Services.

Checking-account reports are separate specialty consumer reports. You can request a free copy from the reporting company, generally once every 12 months and after qualifying adverse action.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Safety & practical steps

For this situationA commercial people-search listing containing your contact or household information.

Many people-search sites offer their own free opt-out process. Follow the site’s instructions, but understand that removing one listing does not erase public records or other sites.

Practical guidance, not a statement of a legal right or a guarantee of an outcome. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationAn unexplained inquiry appearing on your consumer credit report.

No. Federal law permits access for specified purposes, including some account reviews and collection activity. A company still needs a permissible purpose; curiosity is not enough.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationFirm credit or insurance offers based on prescreened lists from participating consumer reporting companies.

Use the official prescreened-offer opt-out service. You can opt out for five years electronically or request permanent removal by completing and returning the signed form.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA personal telephone number registered on the federal Do Not Call Registry.

The FTC says to allow up to 31 days for sales calls covered by the registry to stop. You can then report covered unwanted sales calls.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationAn unwanted sales call using a synthetic or cloned voice.

No. The FCC treats AI-generated voices as artificial voices under federal robocall rules. Covered marketing calls still need the required consent.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Safety & practical steps

For this situationAn incoming call displaying a trusted institution’s number while requesting money or credentials.

No. Caller ID can be spoofed. Hang up and contact the bank through its app, your card or another independently verified channel.

Practical guidance, not a statement of a legal right or a guarantee of an outcome. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationAn unauthorized change of the company providing covered home landline service.

An unauthorized change of a wireline telephone carrier is called slamming. Contact your preferred carrier and file a slamming complaint through the FCC’s process.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationAn unexplained third-party service or subscription charge on a personal phone bill.

Yes. Unauthorized charges placed on a telephone bill are known as cramming. Ask the carrier and listed billing company to identify and remove the unauthorized charge.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA request to transfer an eligible existing number to a new telephone provider.

A carrier cannot refuse to complete an otherwise valid number port merely while collecting an outstanding balance or termination fee.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Start with full message context and timestamps; profile URLs and report references; original screenshots.

Keep your own observations separate from what someone told you. These are preparation steps, not a finding about your rights or eligibility.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

No. The Americans with Disabilities Act can cover physical or mental disabilities, including ones other people cannot see.

Coverage depends on the legal definition and the setting. You do not apply for an ADA membership or card.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA trained service dog at a US restaurant or shop covered by the ADA. Housing, employment and airline rules are different.

A restaurant covered by the ADA generally must let your trained service dog accompany you in customer areas, even with a no-pets rule.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Background reading

The ADA does not require service-dog certification or a special vest. When the need is not obvious, staff may ask whether the dog is needed because of a disability and what work or task it is trained to do.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Comfort alone does not qualify an animal as a service animal under the ADA’s public-access rules. A service dog must be trained to do disability-related work or tasks.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA patient with a communication disability receiving care from a provider covered by ADA Title II or Title III.

An ADA-covered provider cannot require you to bring your own interpreter. Reliance on a minor child is limited to an imminent-threat emergency when a qualified interpreter is unavailable.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA business or nonprofit serving the public that charges a person with a disability for an accommodation required by ADA Title III.

A public accommodation cannot add a disability surcharge to cover measures it must provide under the ADA, including required auxiliary aids and services.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationReservations made through a covered US hotel’s reservation service for an accessible guest room and specified accessibility features.

For covered hotel reservations, the ADA requires reservable accessible features and a specific accessible room to be blocked and held for the customer once reserved under the rule.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA person using a device other than a conventional wheelchair because of a mobility disability at an ADA-covered public facility.

Covered facilities generally must consider other power-driven mobility devices used because of a mobility disability, unless the device type cannot be accommodated under legitimate safety requirements.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA patient with a mobility disability seeking an examination from a medical provider covered by the ADA.

An ADA-covered medical provider cannot require you to bring a friend or family member for assistance. The provider must offer reasonable help needed to receive care, which can include safe transfer assistance.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA parent or other appropriate companion in an ADA-covered healthcare setting.

Effective-communication duties can cover a companion with a disability when the provider appropriately communicates with that companion about the patient.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationPatients or appropriate companions using sign language at ADA-covered providers.

Video interpreting must meet performance standards and actually provide effective communication. An ineffective connection may require another aid or an on-site interpreter.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationPeople with hearing or speech disabilities contacting ADA-covered businesses or public services.

ADA-covered entities must accept telecommunications and video relay calls and treat them like other calls.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationCustomers with vision disabilities obtaining ordinary restaurant service.

An ADA-covered restaurant must communicate effectively. Reading the menu aloud can be a practical way to provide access for a blind customer.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationPeople participating in a state or local government hearing covered by ADA Title II.

State and local governments must give primary consideration to the aid requested by a person with a communication disability.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationHandlers of qualifying service dogs at ADA-covered public accommodations.

Allergies or fear of dogs alone are not valid reasons to deny a service animal. The business should try to accommodate both people.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationService-dog handlers at ADA-covered hotels, gyms, or public pools.

A qualifying service animal generally must be allowed on a pool deck where other guests may go. The ADA does not require allowing dogs in the pool water.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationGuests using qualifying service animals at ADA-covered hotels.

A hotel cannot impose a service-animal cleaning charge for ordinary hair or dander. It may charge for actual damage on the same terms as other guests.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationHospital patients with service animals who temporarily cannot supervise or care for them.

The hospital must first give you an opportunity to arrange the dog’s care. A friend or family member may help; staff are not required to provide animal care.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA service-animal handler at an ADA-covered business after lawful animal exclusion.

When exclusion of the animal is justified, the business must still offer you the opportunity to obtain goods or services without the animal present.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationPeople purchasing accessible seating at covered ticketed venues.

Accessible tickets generally must be sold through the same methods, during the same hours, and on the same terms as other tickets.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationAccessible-seat purchasers at covered venues with individually sold tickets.

Generally, a buyer of an accessible seat may purchase up to three contiguous companion seats in the same row, subject to availability and general ticket limits.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationCustomers buying accessible tickets from covered venues or third-party sellers.

Venues cannot require proof of disability to buy accessible seats. They may ask whether the purchaser needs, or buys for someone needing, the accessible features.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationPeople needing accessible seating who purchased through the secondary ticket market.

A venue must allow exchange of a secondary-market nonaccessible ticket for a comparable accessible seat if one is available.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationCustomers needing an accessible fitting room at an ADA-covered store.

Required accessible features must remain usable. DOJ guidance says accessible fitting rooms should not be cluttered with merchandise or supplies.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationPublic accommodations in existing buildings covered by ADA Title III.

Existing businesses have an ongoing duty to remove architectural barriers when readily achievable, meaning without much difficulty or expense. Age alone is not an exemption.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationPeople with mobility disabilities using a city or county program.

A city must provide access to its program when viewed as a whole. Moving an interview to an accessible location can be an appropriate solution.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationFamilies applying to public or nonreligious private childcare covered by the ADA.

An ADA-covered childcare center must consider the child’s individual needs and reasonable policy modifications, rather than categorically excluding children with diabetes.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationChildren with disabilities seeking access to ADA-covered childcare.

Centers that provide diapering generally must consider modifying age-based toileting rules for a child whose disability causes the need.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationApplicants requesting disability accommodations on covered admissions, licensing, or certification examinations.

DOJ says testing entities should generally grant the same accommodation on a similar high-stakes test when prior approval and current disability-related need are documented.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationVisitors with disabilities using a public system’s ADA complementary paratransit.

Covered transit systems must provide eligible visitors complementary paratransit for up to 21 days in a 365-day period without requiring local eligibility certification first.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationApplicants for ADA complementary paratransit eligibility.

If no eligibility determination is made within 21 days after a complete application, the applicant must be treated as eligible until a denial is issued.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationADA-eligible riders using federally required complementary paratransit.

The fare for required complementary paratransit generally cannot exceed twice the full fixed-route fare for a comparable trip.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationRiders with disabilities on covered fixed-route transit.

Fixed-route transit personnel must announce a stop requested by a rider with a disability, in addition to required major stops and orientation announcements.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationRiders with disabilities who have difficulty boarding steps on covered fixed-route vehicles.

No. Riders with disabilities who do not use wheelchairs may use a fixed-route vehicle’s lift or ramp without disclosing their diagnosis.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Start with what access or accommodation was requested; responses and dates; the service or organization involved.

Keep your own observations separate from what someone told you. These are preparation steps, not a finding about your rights or eligibility.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

The Fair Housing Act prohibits covered housing discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability or having children in the household.

The law can apply to renting, buying, mortgages and other housing services.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Report it through HUD’s housing discrimination page or call 1-800-669-9777. Include what happened, when, the property and who was involved.

HUD also explains accessible reporting options and protections against retaliation on the linked page.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA resident with a disability seeking an exception to an unassigned-parking policy at housing covered by the Fair Housing Act.

Yes. In housing covered by the Fair Housing Act, reserving an available accessible space can be a required reasonable accommodation when disability makes it necessary to use and enjoy your home.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA disability-related structural change, such as bathroom grab bars, in a rental home covered by the Fair Housing Act.

A landlord covered by the Fair Housing Act generally must permit a reasonable modification needed because of a disability. In ordinary private housing, the tenant usually pays for that modification.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA rental decision based at least partly on a consumer or tenant screening report, under the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

You are entitled to the screening company’s contact information and notice of your dispute rights. Request a free copy of the report from that company within 60 days of the adverse action.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationSurvivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault or stalking in a VAWA-covered housing program, regardless of sex.

Generally no. In a covered housing program, a survivor may choose from permitted documentation, including HUD’s self-certification form. A provider normally cannot insist on a police report.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationSexual demands or other unlawful sexual harassment connected to obtaining or keeping housing, repairs or housing services.

Conditioning repairs on sexual conduct is a form of sexual harassment in housing that can violate the Fair Housing Act. You can report conduct by maintenance workers, managers or landlords to DOJ or HUD.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose California to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

California law

For this situationA tenant moving out of a California residential rental.

Within 21 days after you move out, the landlord must return the remaining deposit and provide an itemized statement of deductions.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose California to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

California law

For this situationA California residential tenant preparing for an ordinary move-out, rather than an eviction covered by a statutory inspection exception.

Yes. You can request an initial inspection during the last two weeks of the tenancy, attend it, and receive an itemized list of proposed deductions so you can address them before leaving.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose New York to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

New York law

For this situationA New York residential tenant moving out of a rental that is not subject to rent stabilization or rent control.

Within 14 days after you vacate, the landlord must provide an itemized statement of deductions and return the remaining deposit. Missing that deadline forfeits the right to retain any of it.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose New York to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

New York law

For this situationA prospective residential tenant applying to a New York landlord, outside the cooperative-apartment exception.

For a covered rental application, a landlord’s background or credit-check fee is limited to the actual cost or $20, whichever is less.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose New York to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

New York law

For this situationA New York residential tenant with a lease of at least one year but less than two years, occupancy under two years, and a proposed increase of at least 5%, outside rent regulation.

For a covered tenant with a one-year lease who has occupied the unit for less than two years, the landlord must give at least 60 days’ written notice of a renewal increase of 5% or more.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose Maryland to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Maryland law

For this situationA Maryland residential tenant whose tenancy has ended normally, with possession returned to the landlord.

Within 45 days after the tenancy ends, the landlord must return the deposit with applicable interest, less lawful deductions, and mail a written itemization of claimed damage costs.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose Maryland to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Maryland law

For this situationA Maryland residential tenant facing a serious hazard, such as dangerous wiring or lack of required heat, rather than a minor cosmetic defect.

Maryland rent escrow can address serious conditions threatening life, health or safety after the landlord has notice and a reasonable opportunity to repair. The court can direct rent into escrow and order relief.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose the District of Columbia to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

District of Columbia law

For this situationA DC residential tenant disputing a replacement charge for normal deterioration, age or ordinary use.

DC law does not allow a landlord to charge the tenant or deduct from the deposit for replacement value caused by ordinary wear and tear.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose the District of Columbia to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

District of Columbia law

For this situationA DC residential tenant receiving a landlord’s notice of a rent increase.

No. The increase can take effect on the first normal rent due date more than 60 calendar days after notice, subject to any longer required notice period.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA rental advertisement expressing a preference against households with children under 18.

An advertisement excluding families with children generally violates the Fair Housing Act’s familial-status protection unless a valid exemption, such as qualifying older-person housing, applies.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA mortgage application affected by pregnancy or assumptions about future family responsibilities.

A lender cannot deny housing credit because you are pregnant. Federal fair-housing protection for familial status includes pregnancy.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationRace-based restriction of housing choices by a covered broker or provider.

Steering a buyer or renter toward or away from neighborhoods because of race can violate the Fair Housing Act, even without an outright refusal to sell or rent.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA suspected race-based false statement about an available dwelling.

Falsely denying housing availability because of race is prohibited. The timing, unit and comparison can help establish what happened.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA covered rental provider requiring a nationality-based security deposit.

For covered housing, imposing different rental terms because of national origin violates the Fair Housing Act. A nationality-based deposit rule is a different term of rental.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationThreats or adverse treatment linked to assisting a fair-housing complaint.

Federal fair-housing law prohibits coercion, intimidation, threats or interference because you helped someone exercise protected housing rights.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationAn ordinary rental application where you have not requested disability-related eligibility or accommodation.

Housing providers generally may not ask whether applicants have disabilities or ask about their nature or severity. Ask why the information is needed and whether the question will be withdrawn.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA covered tenant who needs a disability-related alternative to an in-person rent-payment policy.

A change to an in-person payment rule can be a reasonable accommodation when necessary because of a disability and when it does not create an undue burden or fundamental change.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA representative requesting a housing policy change for a person with a disability.

Yes. A family member or another person acting for a resident may communicate a reasonable-accommodation request. The resident need not personally use legal terminology.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationAn unresolved disability accommodation in housing covered by the Fair Housing Act.

Yes. Housing providers must respond promptly, and an undue delay can amount to failure to provide a reasonable accommodation.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA fee imposed specifically for a required disability-related housing policy accommodation.

A housing provider cannot require an extra fee or deposit as a condition of granting a reasonable accommodation under the Fair Housing Act.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA necessary disability-related exterior or common-area modification to covered housing.

Under the Fair Housing Act’s reasonable-modification rule, a provider cannot require restoration of an exterior modification or a modification to a common-use area.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationPotential design barriers in a building containing at least four dwellings.

Yes. The Fair Housing Act requires specified accessibility features in covered multifamily housing designed and built for first occupancy after March 13, 1991.