What to Do If Stopped by Police
Stay calm, know your rights, and handle police interactions professionally. This guide helps you navigate encounters with law enforcement regarding lock pick possession.
Remember: In Most Jurisdictions, Possession is Legal
In most places, possession of lock picks for hobby purposes is completely legal. This guide helps you communicate that effectively and professionally. Don't panic - being prepared makes encounters smoother.
The Scenario
If police find lock picks during a traffic stop, stop and frisk, security checkpoint, or other interaction, here's how to handle it professionally.
Common Scenarios:
- • Traffic stop with picks visible or found during search
- • Stop and frisk / Terry stop
- • Security checkpoint (courthouse, stadium, etc.)
- • Home visit or welfare check
- • Random encounter where hobby comes up
What TO DO
Remain Calm and Polite
- • Don't panic - possession is often legal
- • Be respectful and cooperative
- • Don't make sudden movements
- • Keep hands visible
Clearly Explain Your Hobby
Example Script:
"Officer, these are lock picking tools for my hobby. It's called locksport - like puzzle solving. I'm a member of TOOOL [show membership card]. I practice on my own locks at home and attend competitions. Possession for hobby purposes is legal in [your jurisdiction]."
Provide Documentation
Show if available:
- • TOOOL or similar organization membership card
- • Competition registration/invitation
- • Photos of your home practice setup
- • This website's legal page for your area
Answer Questions Honestly
- • Explain when/why you have the picks
- • Mention how long you've been practicing
- • Reference competitions or events attended
- • Explain that it's a recognized hobby with organizations
What NOT TO DO
Don't Lie or Hide
- Never claim picks are for locksmith work (if you're not licensed)
- Don't hide picks or act suspicious
- Don't provide false information
Don't Argue About the Law
- Don't lecture police about legality
- Remain respectful even if you disagree
- Save legal arguments for court if necessary
Don't Volunteer Extra Information
- Answer questions asked
- Don't elaborate unnecessarily
- "I'd prefer not to answer without an attorney" is acceptable
Don't Admit to Illegal Intent
- Never joke about burglary
- Don't mention trying locks you don't own
- Emphasize legal practice on your own locks
If You Are Arrested
Note: Arrest for lock pick possession alone is rare in most jurisdictions. However, if it happens, here are your immediate steps.
Immediate Steps:
- Invoke right to remain silent: "I wish to remain silent"
- Request attorney: "I want to speak with an attorney"
- Do not sign anything without attorney review
- Document everything (officer names, badge numbers, time, location)
- Contact TOOOL legal support if available
General Rights (US-Focused):
- •Right to Remain Silent: You cannot be compelled to answer questions. Clearly state: "I am invoking my right to remain silent."
- •Right to Attorney: You can request an attorney before answering any questions. Once requested, questioning must stop.
- •Miranda Rights: If in custody and being interrogated, you must be read your rights. Anything said before Miranda can sometimes still be used.
- •Phone Call: You're typically entitled to a phone call. Use it to contact an attorney or someone who can arrange one.
For International Travelers:
Rights vary significantly by country. In the UK, you have the right to free legal advice at the police station. In EU countries, you generally have the right to an interpreter and to be informed of charges. If arrested abroad, immediately request contact with your country's embassy or consulate—this is an internationally recognized right.
Community Support:
The locksport community has historically been supportive of members facing legal issues. While TOOOL doesn't maintain a formal legal defense fund, the community can often help with:
- • Referrals to attorneys familiar with lock pick laws
- • Expert testimony about locksport as a legitimate hobby
- • Community letters explaining the hobby's legitimacy
- • Crowdfunding support in egregious cases
Documentation to Carry
Having documentation ready can help resolve encounters quickly and professionally.
Prevention Tips
Best practices to minimize the chance of issues:
Only Carry When Necessary
To/from events or practice sessions, not everyday carry unless needed
Professional Presentation
Organized case, labeled as 'Locksport Equipment', include practice locks
Documentation Always
Membership card, event materials, legal status bookmarked
Context Matters
Avoid late night carrying, suspicious locations, keep in bag
Educate Friends/Family
They can vouch for your hobby if needed
Legal Resources
Find an Attorney
If you need legal representation, look for criminal defense attorneys familiar with "burglar tools" or "possession of instruments of crime" statutes. When speaking with potential attorneys:
- • Ask if they've handled lock pick possession cases
- • Explain that locksport is a recognized hobby with organized competitions
- • Mention TOOOL and provide links to legitimacy documentation
Know Your Rights Resources
These organizations provide jurisdiction-specific information about your rights during police encounters:
UK Legal Resources
For UK-based enthusiasts or those traveling to the UK:
Information to Have Ready When Contacting an Attorney
- • Exact date, time, and location of the encounter
- • Names and badge numbers of officers involved
- • What was said (write it down immediately after)
- • What you were charged with (if applicable)
- • Documentation of your locksport hobby
- • TOOOL membership and any event registrations
- • Any witnesses to the encounter