If you ever have contact with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the most important thing to remember is this: stay calm. How you conduct yourself in the moment matters.
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY — DO’S AND DON’TS
DO
- Stay calm, respectful, and non-confrontational at all times.
- Remember: ICE has the power on the street. Do not fight them on the street.
- Do not argue, resist, or escalate the encounter in any way.
- If asked questions, you may say: “I choose to remain silent and I want to speak to my attorney.”
- If you entered the U.S. with a visa or currently have lawful status, it can be helpful to calmly state that fact, as it may lead to release or allow counsel to pursue release more quickly.
- If you believe your rights are being violated because you have status, calmly and politely ask to speak to a supervisor and remain patient.
- Ask to see a warrant signed by a judge if ICE asks to enter your home.
- Contact our office as soon as possible if you are stopped or detained.
DON’T
- Do not run, argue, threaten, or resist.
- Do not provide false information or false documents.
- Do not sign anything without speaking to an attorney.
- Do not open your door unless ICE shows a judicial warrant (an ICE administrative warrant is not sufficient).
- Do not create a situation where force could be used.
A CRITICAL REMINDER
Your fight is in a courtroom, not on the street. Save your energy. Do not resist. Comply calmly.
In law enforcement, there is a saying:
“You can beat the rap, but you can’t beat the ride.”
Unfortunately, ICE controls the ride. Your goal is to make it a safe one, so we can fight effectively on your behalf through proper legal channels.
You have constitutional rights regardless of immigration status. If ICE contacts you or a family member, call us immediately so we can step in and protect your interests.