In France, carrying a knife (automatic or not) is prohibited....that said, i ( and my brother, my sons too..)daily carry a knife (pocket, switchblade, assisted opening..) on my belt since i am 17 Y.O...and never be arrested for that. Now if you are a thug, or in a gang, or are arrested or controlled in a (or after) a demonstration, cops will confiscate your blade (and keep it for himself..)and that's all, no lawsuit except if you have a background)..Now who goes in a demonstration with a knife ?