How to Protect Your Rights During an Immigration Raid

Encountering immigration officials can be a stressful and frightening experience. Knowing your rights is the first and most critical step toward protecting yourself and your family. At Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC, we are committed to providing legal guidance to ensure your rights are upheld.

Here are the key points to remember:

• You have the right to remain silent.
• You do not have to open your door unless officials show a warrant signed by a judge.
• Do not lie or present false documents.
• You have the right to speak with an attorney.
• Prepare your family with an emergency plan.

What Should I Do If ICE Comes to My Home?

The most common question we hear is, “What should I do if ICE comes to my home?” First, stay calm. Do not open your door. Ask the officers to show you the warrant by sliding it under the door or holding it up to a window.

A valid warrant must be signed by a judge and will list the specific address to be searched and the individuals to be seized. An administrative warrant, often called an “ICE warrant,” is not enough to grant them entry into your home. If they do not produce a judicial warrant, you can keep your door closed. You can state clearly, “I do not consent to a search of my home.”

If officers force their way in, do not physically resist. State clearly, “I do not consent to this search, and I am exercising my right to remain silent.”

Your Right to Remain Silent

You have the right to remain silent, and you should use it. You are not required to disclose information regarding your immigration status, place of birth, or method of entry into the country. Anything you say can be used against you. Simply state, “I am exercising my right to remain silent and wish to speak with an attorney.” This is the most effective way to protect yourself from accidentally providing information that could harm your case.

How Can I Ensure My Family Knows Their Rights During an Immigration Raid?

Preparing your family is crucial. Everyone in your household, including children old enough to understand, should know their rights. Create a family emergency plan.

• Educate Everyone: Teach your family members not to open the door and to exercise their right to remain silent.
• Memorize a Lawyer’s Number: Ensure everyone has the phone number of a trusted immigration attorney memorized or in a safe place.
• Gather Important Documents: Keep essential documents like passports, birth certificates, and immigration records in a secure and easily accessible location.
• Designate a Contact: Have a trusted friend or family member who is a U.S. citizen or legal resident designated as an emergency contact.

What If I Am Arrested or Detained?

If you are detained, do not sign any documents without speaking to an attorney first. Tell the officers you want to speak with your lawyer. You also have the right to contact your consulate. Do not provide any false information, as this can have severe legal consequences.

Legal Guidance You Can Trust

Navigating an encounter with immigration officials requires legal support. The attorneys at Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC have decades of experience defending the rights of immigrants. We provide aggressive and professional representation to ensure you and your family are protected.

If you have concerns or need immediate assistance, contact our office for a confidential consultation.