If an inspector states they need to take your documents for copies, what is the advised course of action?

When an inspector indicates a need to take your documents for copies, the most prudent response is to object to the request firmly. This aligns with the understanding of an individual's rights and the proper protocols in the context of aviation law.

To elaborate, inspectors often have the authority to review documents for compliance with regulations, but they do not necessarily have the right to remove documents from your possession without due process. By firmly objecting, you are asserting your right to keep your documents, which may contain sensitive or proprietary information, while still being cooperative within the bounds of the law. It allows for a dialogue about the inspector's needs without prematurely conceding control over your documents.

Filing a formal complaint or imposing a stance of disagreement, particularly in aviation law, safeguards your interests. This approach might lead to an alternative, such as being present during the copying process or allowing the inspector to review documents on-site instead. It’s important to maintain negotiation and communication rather than compliance that could inadvertently lead to relinquishing documents unlawfully.