U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents are at your door. They may be searching for you, someone you live with, a coworker, or they may have the wrong place. Regardless of the situation, it’s important that you are aware of your rights. This is what you need to know before a visit from ICE:
- If agents knock on the door, keep it closed and ask them what they are there for. If you open the door, that does not give ICE permission to walk inside, but they might do it anyways.
- If you do not speak the same language as the ICE agent, ask for an interpreter. One should be provided to you.
- If ICE wants to enter your residence or work, ask them if they have a warrant signed by a judge. If the “warrant” is an order signed by ICE (example), it is not enough for entry into the premises. Only a warrant signed by a judge (example) can be used to legally enter.
- If ICE does not have a warrant, politely state, “I do not consent to your entry” and keep the door closed. If they force their way in, do not resist. Say, “I do not consent to your entry. I am exercising my right to remain silent. I wish to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.” Record the encounter with a cellphone if possible.
- If ICE does have a warrant, ask them to slide it under the door or hand it to you. Read the warrant and make sure it applies to you or a person in the premises.
- If ICE’s warrant is credible, allow them inside. Do not lie or show false documents and ask for a lawyer before signing any papers or agreeing to anything further.
If you have been arrested and detained by ICE, contact our experienced Palm Harbor immigration lawyers at Dean Kantaras, P.A. today.
Call (727) 939-6113 or contact us online to schedule an initial consultation.