Orientation guide for newcomers to New Brunswick - Government of ...

Chapter 15The legal systemNew Brunswick is one of the safest places inCanada. Statistics from 2006 show it has oneof the lowest crime rates in the country. It isimportant to know about the laws followedin New Brunswick and the people who keepthe province safe.The policeThe police make sure Canadians obey thelaw, but that is not their only job. They mayhelp you in many ways – if you are hurt, introuble or if simply need directions. ManyCanadians teach their children to go to apolice officer if they are lost. Police in Canadamay be male or female.In an emergency, you may reach the policeby telephoning 9-1-1. If your situation isnot an emergency, you may call the nonemergencypolice number, found on thefirst page of the telephone book.The Royal Canadian Mounted Police(RCMP)The Royal Canadian Mounted Police(RCMP) is Canada’s national police force.The Mounties, as they are also known,are the main police force in rural areas inNew Brunswick. In some communities,the RCMP works with the local police.Local police forcesLarger communities in New Brunswickhave municipal police forces.Dealing with the policeImportant: never offer a police officer money.Canadians do not bribe police, and to doso is a serious crime.The Public Legal Education and InformationService (PLEIS) has a brochure, The Law, ThePolice and You: Your Rights When Questioned,Detained or Arrested, available at:• http://www.legal-info-legale.nb.calen/law-police-you-rightsA police officer is allowed to engage incasual conversation and to ask questions.Sometimes, police carry out highway spotchecks to determine if you, as a motorist,have a proper licence, registration andinsurance; and to determine if you, againas a motorist, are driving with a seatbelt, asrequired, and are not impaired.A police officer is allowed to stop you and askfor identification if he or she suspects you aredriving a motor vehicle under the influenceof alcohol or are otherwise impaired. In thisinstance, you should safely pull over to theside as soon as possible. Stay in your car.Do not get out and walk toward the police.Wait for the police officer to come to you.You should roll down your car window andspeak politely. The police officer will probablyask you for your driver’s licence, proof ofinsurance and car registration. You are legallyobliged to produce these documents if thepolice officer asks to see them.Orientation guide for newcomers to New Brunswick89