A dispersal order from the police: is that allowed?
The police tell you to leave a place, or impose a longer ban on being in a place? A dispersal order is an interference with your freedom of movement, permissible only under certain conditions and only for as long as necessary.
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What you should do now
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1. Follow the instruction for now
Do not resist physically. Leave the place as instructed; the lawfulness can be argued afterward, not in the situation.
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2. Ask for the reason and duration
Calmly ask for the reason, the legal basis, and how long and for what area the dispersal order applies. Note the officer's badge number.
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3. Check proportionality
A blanket, long ban from a place without a concrete danger is often disproportionate, which you can challenge afterward.
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4. Get advice afterward
If you consider the dispersal order unlawful, you can complain or take legal action against it. Document what happened.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to comply with a dispersal order?
Yes, in the situation you should follow the instruction and not resist physically; otherwise further measures may threaten. Whether the dispersal order was lawful can be clarified afterward and, if necessary, challenged.
How long may a dispersal order apply?
Only for as long as necessary. A short dispersal order applies to the concrete situation. A longer ban from an entire area is only permissible under stricter conditions and must be proportionate; the details are regulated by the state police law.
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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.