ICE: Immigration and Customs Enforcement
Understanding Your Rights with ICE
Your constitutional rights when interacting with Immigration and Customs Enforcement
The Public Bar Association (PBA) provides this for educational purposes only. This is not legal advice. Every situation is different. Consult with a qualified immigration attorney.
If ICE Comes to Your Home
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Do not open the door. You do not have to open the door unless ICE agents show you a warrant signed by a judge.
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Ask them to slide the warrant under the door or hold it up to a window. An administrative warrant (Form I-200 or I-205) does not allow them to enter without consent.
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If they force entry, do not resist physically. State clearly: "I do not consent to this search."
If You Are Stopped in Public
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You have the right to remain silent. You do not have to answer questions about where you were born or your immigration status.
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Ask, "Am I free to go?" If they say yes, walk away calmly.
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Do not lie or show false documents. It is better to remain silent.
If ICE Comes to Your Workplace
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Do not run. Running can be used as a reason to arrest you. Stay calm.
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For private areas (kitchen, factory floor), they need a judicial warrant. You have the right to remain silent.
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Do not sign any documents without speaking to a lawyer first.
Sensitive Locations
ICE generally avoids enforcement actions at "sensitive locations" unless there are exigent circumstances:
Creating a Family Safety Plan
Prepare your family in case of an emergency detention situation
Important Documents
Keep passports, birth certificates, medical records, and alien registration numbers (A-Numbers) in a safe, accessible place. Give copies to a trusted friend or family member.
Childcare Plan
Designate a trusted adult to care for your children if you are detained. Ensure they have a "Power of Attorney" for childcare if required by your state.
Legal Contact
Memorize the phone number of a lawyer or a legal aid organization. Have your loved ones memorize it too. Keep a physical copy in your wallet.
Key Phrases to Remember
"I am exercising my right to remain silent."
"Estoy ejerciendo mi derecho a permanecer en silencio."
"I do not consent to this search."
"No doy mi consentimiento para esta búsqueda."
"I want to speak with a lawyer."
"Quiero hablar con un abogado."
Find Immigration Legal Help
If you or a family member has been detained, finding qualified legal representation is critical. Do not use "notarios" — they are not lawyers and cannot provide legal advice.