Know Your Rights: What to Do in Case of an ICE Raid

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids can be frightening and disorienting for anyone, especially those who do not have regular immigration status in the United States. Knowing your rights and how to act in these situations is crucial to protecting yourself and your loved ones. Here’s a guide on what to do in the event of an ICE raid.

1. Know Your Basic Rights

Everyone, regardless of immigration status, has rights under the U.S. Constitution. This includes:

Right to remain silent: You are not required to answer questions from ICE officers. You can say that you want to exercise your right to remain silent.
Right to a lawyer: You have the right to speak with an attorney before answering any questions. If you can’t afford one, you have the right to seek free legal assistance.
Right not to sign documents: Do not sign any documents without reviewing them with an attorney, as it could imply your deportation.

Reference: American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)

2. What to Do if ICE Comes to Your Home

If ICE agents show up at your home, it’s important to remember the following steps:

Do not open the door: ICE cannot enter your home without a warrant signed by a judge. Ask to be shown the order under the door or through a window.
Check the order: Make sure the order has your correct name and address. If not, you are not obliged to let them in.
Stay calm: Do not try to run away or physically resist, as this could make the situation worse.

Reference: Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC)

3. What to Do if ICE Stops You on the Street

If you are stopped on the street or in a public place:

Ask if you’re free to leave: If you’re not being arrested, you can ask if you’re free to leave. If they say yes, walk away calmly.
Don’t give unnecessary information: You only need to provide your name, not your country of origin or immigration status.
Don’t show fake documents: Showing false documents or lying about your status can have serious legal consequences.

Reference: National Immigration Law Center (NILC)

4. Rights During Detention

If you are detained by ICE, you have the following rights:

Right to remain silent: You don’t have to answer questions about your place of birth or how you entered the country.
Right to a lawyer: You can ask to speak to a lawyer. It is important that you contact an immigration attorney as soon as possible.
Right to a call: You have the right to make a call to tell your family or your lawyer about your situation.

Reference: United We Dream

5. Plan Ahead

It is essential to have a plan in place in case of an ICE raid:

Have an emergency contact: Identify someone you trust who can take care of your children or handle your affairs if you are arrested.
Prepare an “emergency plan”: Include copies of important documents, emergency contacts, and a list of immigration attorneys who can help you.
Inform your family about your rights: Make sure everyone in your household knows what to do in the event of an ICE raid.

Reference: Immigrants Rising

6. Use Apps and Tools to Protect Yourself

There are several mobile apps that can help you in emergency situations:

Notifies: This app allows you to alert family members and lawyers if you are arrested.
MigraCam: It helps you record interactions with authorities and sends live videos to your emergency contacts.

Reference: ACLU Apps

Conclusion

Knowing your rights and how to act in the event of an ICE raid can make a big difference. Stay informed, prepare an emergency plan, and make sure you and your family are protected. If you are facing a situation of this type, remember that you are not alone and that the entire team of Pro immigration professionals is there for you and your family at all times.

Sharing this information with your community can help many become better prepared. If you have specific questions or need legal assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us. Remember that with immigration Pro, Yes you can.