What to do if immigration agents come to you: advice from lawyers

All people living in the United States, including undocumented immigrants, have certain U.S. constitutional rights. What to do if ICE agents suddenly show up at your door, explains American Immigration Lawyers Association.

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If you are undocumented and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents are knocking on your door, know that you have certain rights.

You don't have to open the door.

You are not required to open the door or allow officers into your home unless they have a valid search warrant signed by a judge.

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• Deportation order, issued by ICE, is not a search warrant. If they only have that document, they cannot legally enter unless you verbally consent to it.
  • If officers say they have a search warrant signed by a judge, ask them to slide it under the door or hold it out the window so you can see it.
  • If the warrant has the wrong name or address, or if it is not signed by a judge, you are not required to open the door or let the officers in.
  • If you decide to talk to the officers, there is no need to open the door - you can communicate through the door or go outside and close the door behind you.

You have the right to remain silent.

You are not obligated to talk to immigration officers or answer their questions.

• If you are asked where you were born or how you entered the United States, you may refuse to answer or simply remain silent.
  • If you choose to remain silent, say, “I choose the right to remain silent.”
  • You can show the officer the card "Know your rights" (in English or Spanish) explaining that you will remain silent and want to speak to a lawyer.
  • You have the right not to show documents indicating your country of origin.
  • Do not present false documents or lie.

You have the right to a lawyer.

If you are detained or arrested, you have the right to a lawyer and to call your lawyer on the phone. Request a copy handbook for detaineesto review the content center rules.

• • Even if you do not have a lawyer, you can tell immigration officers that you want to talk to one.
  • If you have a lawyer, you have the right to contact him. If you have a signed Form G-28, Proving that you have a lawyer, give it to the officer.
  • If you do not have a lawyer, ask the immigration officer for a list of free lawyers.
  • You also have the right to contact the consulate of your country. The consulate will help you find a lawyer.
  • You have the right to refuse to sign any documents until you speak with a lawyer.
  • If you decide to sign something without consulting an attorney, make sure you fully understand the contents and meaning of the document before signing.
  • You have the right to request a free phone call to family members or friends if you do not have enough money in your account after 10 days.

You may be interested in: top New York news, stories of our immigrants and helpful tips about life in the Big Apple - read it all on ForumDaily New York

For information on how these rights apply to you, contact your immigration attorney or find one at this link: https://www.ailalawyer.org.

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