Mylag Team
Jan 16, 2026
What to expect, what to say, and what not to do.
For many Miami teens, the first interaction with the legal system happens through the police. This guide explains what to expect during police encounters and how the court system works at a basic level.
We cover stops, questioning, searches, and arrests—what officers are allowed to do, what you’re required to do, and where your rights begin and end. We explain the difference between being detained and being arrested, when you can remain silent, and why how you act can change the outcome of an encounter.
The guide also introduces how courts work: citations, juvenile vs adult systems, court dates, fines, and records. We focus on real Miami scenarios, including school-related incidents, traffic stops, and being questioned as a witness.
The goal isn’t to encourage confrontation—it’s to help teens stay calm, informed, and aware in stressful situations where small decisions can have big consequences.