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Police powers

What powers do the police have if they stop and question me?

If the police stop and ask you questions you are required to give them your name and address and failing to do so or providing false information is an offence.

The police can arrest you if they reasonably suspect you have committed, are committing, or are about to commit an offence.

[Summary Offences Act 1953 (SA) s 74A]

You do not have to go to the police station unless you are told you are under arrest. You can go to the police station of your own free will (voluntarily) if you are assisting the police with their enquiries.

See also:

Police powers  :  Last Revised: Fri Nov 17th 2017
The content of the Law Handbook is made available as a public service for information purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for legal advice. See Disclaimer for details. For free and confidential legal advice in South Australia call 1300 366 424.