ICE Operations Are on the Rise: Here’s What You Need to Know
We know the current climate is creating a lot of uncertainty and fear. That’s why we at Benme Legal put together this guide with the most important information to help you and your family be prepared. Save it and share it with anyone who might need it. It could be more useful than you think.
If ICE comes to your home
Don’t open the door. Ask who they are and ask them to slide the warrant under the door or show it through a window. Check who signed it: a judicial warrant is signed by a judge, while an administrative warrant (like Forms I-200 or I-205) is signed by an ICE officer. As a general rule, only a judicial warrant allows entry into a home. However, ICE claims it can enter with an administrative warrant when the person has a final order of removal, a position that’s currently being challenged in court. If officers force their way in, don’t physically resist. Stay calm, don’t sign anything, and write down or record what happens if you can do so safely.
If you’re stopped on the street or at work
You have the right to remain silent. You don’t have to answer questions about where you were born, your immigration status, or how you entered the country. You can calmly ask whether you’re free to leave. Never lie or show false documents. If you have legal status, carry proof of it with you.
Don’t sign without legal advice
Don’t sign any document you don’t understand or before speaking with an attorney. Some forms may mean giving up your right to a hearing or agreeing to leave the country.
Make a family plan
Memorize the phone number of your attorney and a trusted family member. Keep your important documents in a safe, easy-to-reach place, write down your A-Number if you have one, and put in writing who will care for your children or handle your affairs if you can’t.
If a family member is detained
Search for them in the ICE detainee locator using their A-Number, or their full name, date of birth, and country of birth. If they don’t show up, that doesn’t mean they’ve already been deported. Contact an immigration attorney right away.
Whatever happens, the most important thing is to stay calm and get legal guidance as soon as possible.
Every immigration situation is different and should be evaluated individually by an immigration attorney.
If you or a family member has been detained, don’t wait!
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