KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
If Immigration (ICE) Comes to Your Home
1. You do NOT have to open the door
ICE cannot enter your home unless they have a judicial warrant signed by a federal judge or magistrate.
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ICE often carries administrative warrants (Forms I-200 or I-205).
These are NOT enough to enter your home. -
You can speak through the door.
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You can safely say: “I do not consent to entry. Please slide the warrant under the door.”
2. You have the right to remain silent
You do not have to answer questions about:
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Where you were born
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Your immigration status
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How long you’ve been in the U.S.
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Who lives in the home
You can say:
“I choose to remain silent.”
“I want to speak to a lawyer.”
You do not have to explain anything. Silence is a legal right.
If you or a loved one has been contacted by ICE, help is available now. Call (612) 412-1710 to speak with an experienced immigration attorney.
3. Do NOT sign anything without a lawyer
ICE may ask you to sign papers. Do not sign anything unless you have spoken with an immigration attorney.
Signing documents can:
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Give up your right to see a judge
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Lead to fast removal
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Harm future legal options
You can say:
“I will not sign anything without speaking to a lawyer.”
4. You do NOT have to show documents
You do not have to provide:
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Passports
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IDs
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Immigration papers
Do not carry foreign passports unless absolutely necessary.
5. If ICE is already inside
If ICE enters anyway:
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Stay calm
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Do not resist
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Do not answer questions
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Ask for a lawyer immediately
Anything you say can be used against you later.
6. If a family member is detained
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Do not panic
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Write down:
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The person’s full name
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Date of birth
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Country of birth
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Where they were taken
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Contact an immigration attorney immediately.
Detention does not always mean deportation.
7. Prepare ahead of time (important)
Families should prepare before any encounter:
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Keep copies of:
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Children’s U.S. birth certificates
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Proof of time in the U.S. (leases, bills, school or medical records)
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Have a plan for:
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Who picks up children from school
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Temporary caregivers
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Keep an attorney’s phone number written down, not just on a phone
Preparation protects families.
REMEMBER
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You DO have rights.
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You DO NOT have to open the door.
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You DO NOT have to answer questions.
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You DO NOT have to sign anything.
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Asking for a lawyer is never the wrong choice.