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Immigration ICE Raids: What to Do & How to Protect Your Rights


To be prepared for ICE to raid your home or place of employment, here is a list of suggested preparations for what to do during an ICE raid:

Obtain copies of all important documents you have (from the U.S. or another country)

  • Driver’s license
  • Original passport from your country (every page, even the cover)
  • National ID card from your country
  • Municipal ID card

Carry a copy of these documents with you at all times.

Keep the originals safe and let your family know where they are. Also, provide your family with your “A” number if you ever filed for any immigration benefits.

  • Gather documents that prove how long you have been in the U.S., such as school records, work documents, pay stubs, money transfer receipts, and medical records. Keep them all together in case of an ICE raid.
  • If you were ever arrested, make sure you have the original and a copy of your criminal certificate of disposition, which is important information for what to do during an ICE raid.
  • Do not carry any false or fraudulent documents. Never provide a false name to authorities.
  • Ensure that your children’s documents are ready:
    • U.S. Birth certificate originals and their copies (obtain from the city office where your child was born)
    • Social Security card
    • Passport

Memorize your family’s phone numbers. If you are detained during an ICE raid, ask them to call an attorney.

If you have children, make sure their personal information at school is up to date. Update their information every time you move. ICE is now allowed to go into schools and churches to seek out undocumented immigrants there.

Make sure you have someone who can take care of your children in case of an emergency. Fill out the form provided by the authorities for such situations.

Talk to your coworkers about how to respond if a raid occurs at your job.

If you are stopped and questioned by ICE, it’s best to stay silent, exercise your rights, and not answer any questions without consulting an attorney. This is crucial when thinking about what to do during an ICE raid.

If you have check-ins with ICE, make sure to attend. Additionally, if you have court dates, make sure to appear, or the judge may issue a deportation order.

KEY THINGS TO KNOW IF YOU ARE RAIDED BY ICE:

  1. Know Your Rights:
    • You have the right to remain silent. Do not answer questions or sign anything without a lawyer during an ICE raid.
    • You have the right to refuse entry to your home unless ICE has a valid warrant signed by a judge. Ask to see the warrant and verify it carefully.
  1. Keep Documents in Order:
    • Gather and organize copies of important documents, such as identification, proof of residency, and medical or school records. Keep originals in a safe place.
    • Carry a copy of valid identification with you at all times, but never carry false documents.
  1. Create a Safety Plan:
    • Memorize or have access to a trusted family member or lawyer’s phone number.
    • Designate a trusted person to care for your children or dependents in case you are detained. Prepare legal guardianship forms, if necessary.
  1. Prepare Emergency Contacts:
    • Share your A-number (if applicable) and contact information with trusted family or friends.
    • Ensure they know how to contact your attorney.
  1. Inform Your Workplace:
    • Discuss with coworkers what to do during a raid. Remind everyone of their right to remain silent and not answer questions about immigration status
  1. Stay Calm and Silent:
    • If approached by ICE, remain calm, avoid confrontation, and do not run. Know what to do during an ICE raid to protect yourself.
    • Clearly state, “I choose to remain silent” or “I want to speak with my attorney.”
  1. Attend Check-Ins and Court Dates:
    • Always comply with any ICE check-ins or court dates to avoid additional legal issues or a deportation order.
  1. Memorize Key Information:
    • Memorize your lawyer’s number and the numbers of emergency contacts in case you lose access to your phone.

Being prepared and informed about what to do during an ICE raid can protect your rights and minimize risks during a stressful situation like an ICE raid.

We can help you begin your legalization journey, call us today at 718-769-6352! SHEPELSKY LAW GROUP.