Know Your Rights
Understanding your constitutional rights during immigration enforcement encounters. This information is for educational purposes only.
Important Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and enforcement practices vary. Always consult with a licensed immigration attorney for advice specific to your situation.
Your Rights in Different Situations
At Your Home
Your Rights
- •You do NOT have to open the door unless they have a warrant signed by a judge
- •Ask them to slide the warrant under the door or hold it to a window
- •A judicial warrant must have your correct name and address
- •An ICE administrative warrant (Form I-200) does NOT give them the right to enter
- •You can remain silent and do not have to answer questions
What NOT to Do
- •Don't open the door without seeing a valid judicial warrant
- •Don't sign any documents without speaking to a lawyer
- •Don't lie or provide false documents
- •Don't run or resist physically
In Your Car
Your Rights
- •You must provide license, registration, and insurance if asked
- •You do NOT have to answer questions about your immigration status
- •You can say: 'I choose to remain silent'
- •You do NOT have to consent to a search of your vehicle
- •If arrested, you have the right to remain silent
What NOT to Do
- •Don't provide false documents
- •Don't flee or resist arrest
- •Don't consent to searches you don't have to allow
- •Don't answer questions about where you were born
At Work
Your Rights
- •ICE needs a judicial warrant to enter non-public areas
- •You can remain silent about your immigration status
- •You have the right to speak with a lawyer before answering questions
- •You can refuse to sign documents
- •You can record the encounter if it's in a public area
What NOT to Do
- •Don't provide false information to ICE agents
- •Don't sign voluntary departure forms without legal advice
- •Don't physically resist, even if you believe the arrest is unlawful
On the Street
Your Rights
- •You have the right to remain silent
- •You can ask: 'Am I free to go?' If yes, walk away calmly
- •You do NOT have to show immigration documents
- •You can refuse consent to searches
- •You can state: 'I wish to exercise my right to remain silent'
What NOT to Do
- •Don't run from officers
- •Don't physically resist
- •Don't provide false information
- •Don't carry false documents
Key Phrases to Remember
In English
- "I wish to remain silent."
- "I do not consent to a search."
- "Am I free to go?"
- "I want to speak to a lawyer."
- "I will not sign anything without my lawyer."
En Español
- "Deseo permanecer en silencio."
- "No doy mi consentimiento para una búsqueda."
- "¿Soy libre de irme?"
- "Quiero hablar con un abogado."
- "No firmaré nada sin mi abogado."
How to Report Misconduct
If you witness or experience misconduct by immigration enforcement officers, you have the right to file a complaint. Document as much as possible and report through these official channels:
Prepare in Advance
Create an Emergency Plan
- • Memorize emergency contact numbers
- • Designate someone to care for children
- • Keep important documents in a safe place
- • Know your A-number if you have one
- • Have a lawyer's number ready
Documents to Prepare
- • Power of attorney for children
- • Copies of birth certificates
- • Medical records and prescriptions
- • School records
- • Financial information
For Your Family
- • Teach children their rights
- • Practice what to say and do
- • Have a family communication plan
- • Know where to find legal help
- • Keep emergency funds accessible