What You Need to Know About the Laws on Protests and Protesters in California

If you are going to protest or demonstrate in California, or you are simply interested in the laws for protesters, you need to know about various areas of law. In addition to California-specific law, there are federal and constitutional laws to know about. Be sure to see our Guide to Protester Rights in the U.S.

1. Free Speech

Protesting obviously involves speech and expression. See our Guide to Free Speech Laws in California.

2. Government Actions

See what the government can and can’t do to restrict protests, including use of the military, at our Guide to Government Actions.

3. Police Actions

Could you get arrested for protesting or for recording the police with your phone? See our Guide to Police Conduct in California.

4. Privacy

Is the government allowed to track protesters’ whereabouts? See our Guide to Privacy Rights in California.

5. Street Harassment

What to do if counter-protesters attack you? Guide to Street Harassment Law in California.

6. Internet Law

What if you want to protest online? See our Guide to the Internet & Social Media in California.

7. Public Spaces

For protests in public spaces, including parks, streets, or sidewalks, there are various rules about whether individuals or groups of people may occupy the space. See our Guide to Laws about Public Spaces in California.

8. Private Spaces

Protests on private property are even further restricted than those in public spaces. See our Guide to Laws about Property Owners and Homeowners in California.

Further Resources

Find a California-based lawyer who represents protesters.