What to do when they come to your home?
Regardless of your immigration status, you have rights protected under the U.S. Constitution. Understanding your rights and how to exercise them is essential if Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) approaches you or comes to your home. In this guide, we explain what ICE is, your rights as an immigrant, and the steps to take to protect yourself and your loved ones.
What Is ICE?
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is a federal agency under the Department of Homeland Security. Its main responsibility is enforcing immigration laws, conducting deportations, and investigating cases involving national security and border control. ICE agents can detain individuals they believe are in the country without authorization, which is why it is essential to understand how to respond if they contact you.
Why is it important to know your rights?
Being informed about your legal rights empowers you to protect yourself and your family if ICE approaches you. Many people unknowingly give up their rights due to fear or lack of information. Knowing your options allows you to make informed decisions, avoid legal complications, and seek help from a qualified professional, such as a psychologist specializing in immigration cases, to strengthen your case.
Who should be informed?
This information is crucial for:
- Immigrants seeking to regularize their immigration status.
- Families concerned about the possibility of ICE visits.
- People at risk of deportation or already in immigration proceedings.
- Community organizations providing legal and emotional support.
What to do if ICE comes to your home
If ICE agents arrive at your home, it is vital to remain calm and follow these steps:
- Do Not Open the Door: You are not required to open the door unless they present a judicial warrant signed by a judge. Ask them to slide the warrant under the door or show it through a window.
- Check the Warrant: Ensure the warrant is official and signed by a judge. An administrative warrant (Form I-200 or I-205) does not authorize ICE to enter your home without consent.
- Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent: You have the right to stay silent. If you wish to exercise this right, clearly state: “I choose to remain silent.”
- Do Not Sign Anything Without Legal Advice: Do not sign documents without consulting an immigration attorney.
- Seek Legal Help Immediately: Contact an immigration attorney for assistance and to protect your rights. If needed, seek a psychological evaluation for immigration to provide evidence of any emotional impact related to your case.
What to do If ICE stops you in public
- Stay Calm: Do not run or resist, as it may be used against you.
- Ask If You Are Free to Leave: If you are not under arrest, you have the right to leave.
- Do Not Share Personal Information: You are not required to disclose your immigration status or where you were born.
- Request an Attorney: If detained, ask to speak with an attorney before answering questions.
Emotional Support and Psychological Evaluations
The emotional impact of an ICE visit or the threat of deportation can be overwhelming. Seeking a psychological evaluation for immigration is a valuable step in protecting your mental health and supporting your legal case. Our specialized team provides detailed evaluations to strengthen your case and help you cope with the emotional stress of the immigration process.
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Protect your rights
Knowing your rights is the first step to protecting yourself and your loved ones. If ICE contacts you, stay calm, exercise your right to remain silent, and seek legal assistance immediately. At our practice, we are here to support you with professional psychological evaluations tailored to your immigration needs.
If you are looking for an experienced psychologist in Spanish near me, do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you protect your rights and navigate the immigration process with greater confidence and emotional well-being.