Know Your Rights if Encountered by ICE

No matter what your immigration status, you have constitutional rights when interacting with law enforcement, this also include ICE: 

YOU Have The Right to Remain Silent: You do not have to answer questions about your citizenship, where you were born, or how you entered the U.S.. You should state clearly, "I have the right to remain silent and would like to speak to an attorney".

Make Dam Sure You Do Not Sign Anything: Do not sign any documents, such as "voluntary departure" forms, without first consulting an immigration attorney. Signing paperwork without legal counsel can lead to immediate deportation or the loss of important legal rights.

You Have The Right to Legal Counsel: You have the right to hire a lawyer, but be advised: The government is not required to provide one for you in immigration court.

Do Not Consent to Searches: ICE cannot search you or your belongings without your consent or a judicial warrant.

If You Are at Home: You do not have to open the door to ICE agents. They cannot enter your home without a valid judicial warrant signed by a judge, not just an administrative warrant issued by ICE.

If You Are in Public: You can ask, "Am I free to leave?" If the agent says yes, you can leave calmly. If they say no, you are being detained, you should immediately invoke your right to remain silent and ask for a lawyer. 

Some basic steps to Take if Detained

If you or some one you care about has been detained by ICE, quick action is essential: 

Keep your Cool: Make o fast movements and do not resist or argue with the officers, even if you believe your rights are being violated.

Locate the Detainee: Use the ICE Online Detainee Locator tool to find out where the individual is being held. Note that it may take 24-48 hours for a new detainee's information to appear in the system.

Contact an Immigration Attorney Immediately: Legal help is critical for navigating the complex immigration court system and exploring options for release or relief from deportation (e.g., asylum, bond hearings). Non-profit organizations provide free or low-cost immigration legal services searchable by state and county via resources like the Immigration Advocates Network or the National Immigrant Justice Center.

Create a Safety Plan: Have a plan in place with family members, including memorized contact numbers and written authorization for emergency contacts regarding children's medical/legal decisions. 

Being detained by ICE does not automatically mean immediate deportation; in many cases, you have the right to appear before an immigration judge to present your case.