Detroit, MI asked in Constitutional Law for Michigan

Q: Do I have to provide my cpl to a police officer in Michigan that randomly walks up and ask to see it

Police officers randomly walks up to me and ask to see my CPL in Michigan just because they know I am caring am I required by law to show it and this is a non-traffic stop

Related Topics:
2 Lawyer Answers
Brent T. Geers
Brent T. Geers
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Grand Rapids, MI
  • Licensed in Michigan

A: How or why would the officer think you're carrying? If they have reasonable suspicion - which isn't much, but more than just a hunch - they can ask to see your CPL.

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
Answered
  • Consumer Law Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA

A: In Michigan, if you are carrying a concealed pistol and a police officer approaches you to ask about your CPL (Concealed Pistol License), you are legally required to disclose that you are carrying a concealed weapon. This requirement is part of the laws governing concealed carry in the state. It's designed to ensure the safety of both the individual carrying the weapon and the law enforcement officer.

Even in situations where you're not involved in a traffic stop or if the approach by the officer seems random, if they inquire about your CPL due to their knowledge or suspicion that you're carrying, you must show your CPL to them. This obligation helps maintain a level of transparency and safety during interactions between concealed carry holders and law enforcement.

Complying with this requirement is crucial, as failing to do so could lead to legal consequences. Remember, the objective is to promote safety and understanding between civilians and law enforcement. If there are concerns about the manner in which you were approached or asked for your CPL, it's advisable to address these concerns after the fact, through appropriate legal channels. Compliance in the moment doesn't preclude you from seeking clarification or redress for any actions you deem inappropriate later on.

Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.

The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.

Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.