Know Your Rights
Important Things to Remember if an Immigration Officer Stops You
Immigrants' Rights if Detained
The information above is only a recommendation and should not be substituted for legal advice.
- Keep calm, do NOT run.
- Develop an emergency plan with your family in case you or a family member is arrested.
- Always carry with you a phone card.
- NEVER sign any document, unless your immigration attorney recommends it.
- In case you witness a raid at work, house, or in the streets, inform the Mexican Consulate as soon as possible (478-2866 o 478- 8008 Ext.106, 108, 109)
- NEVER let an immigration officer in your house. The officer is only allowed by law into your house if he/she has a Court Warrant.
- If an immigration agent enters your house without a warrant or your authorization, ask his/her name, badge number, and any witness for their contact information if available.
Immigrants' Rights if Detained
- You must be treated with dignity and respect.
- Remain silent and ask for an immigration lawyer to represent you or to contact the consulate of your country of origin.
- If you have minor dependents, let the authorities or your consulate know so they can be informed of your situation. It is extremely important that you develop an emergency plan so your children will be taken care off.
- If you have been married to a US citizen or have resided in the US for more than 10 years while maintaining good moral character, you might be excused from immediate deportation or might be eligible for a bond. Keep in mind that if you are deported and you decide to return to the US unlawfully, you will not be eligible to fix your immigration status and will be automatically barred from the US for 10 years.
The information above is only a recommendation and should not be substituted for legal advice.
