What to do if you’re given an unlawful order

You’re not alone — and you’re not powerless.

If you’re being asked to do something that feels wrong — legally, ethically, or both — that instinct matters.

Whether you’re in the military, law enforcement, or a government role, you are not required to follow unlawful orders.

But in practice, these situations are rarely clear-cut. Pressure, urgency, and hierarchy can make it difficult to step back and assess what’s happening.

Know your rights

If you’re in the U.S. military, you are only required to follow lawful orders. If you’re unsure, you may be entitled to seek clarification or advice.

The Center on Conscience and War provides resources for service members navigating ethical and legal conflicts.

Why documentation matters

Moments like this often disappear without a record.

Decisions get made quickly. Context is lost. And later, it becomes difficult to reconstruct what actually happened — or who was responsible.

Keeping a contemporaneous record can protect you, and it can help ensure that the truth is not lost.

Record what you can

• What you were asked to do
• Who gave the instruction
• When and where it occurred
• Why it raised concerns for you

You don’t need to have everything. Even partial information can matter.