What to Do When ICE Knocks on Your Door

“[knock at the door] This is the sound that many unauthorized immigrants in the U.S. dread. With the recent passage of the Laken Riley Act and intensified immigration enforcement, fear and uncertainty are at an all-time high—especially for those with past legal issues.

But here’s the truth: Even if you are undocumented, you still have rights! And today, I am going to tell you exactly what they are and what you should do if ICE knocks on your door.

Stay with me until the end because the information I’m about to share could mean the difference between staying in your home or being taken into custody.”

1. You Do NOT Have to Open the Door

“Let’s start with the most important thing you need to know: You do not have to open the door.  You have a 4th amendment right against unreasonable searches and seizures.  ICE agents cannot enter your home unless they have a valid warrant signed by a judge. And let me be clear:  An ICE administrative removal warrant is NOT a judicial warrant. It does NOT give them the right to enter your home without your consent.

What should you do?

• Ask them to show the warrant—but do NOT open the door to take it.
• Have them slide it under the door or hold it up to a window.
• Check if it has your correct name, address, and is signed by a judge.

If the warrant does not meet these criteria, you do NOT have to let them in.”

2. You Have the Right to Remain Silent

“If ICE officers start asking you questions—DO NOT answer. You have the right to remain silent.  If they ask: Where were you born?  How did you enter the U.S.?  What is your immigration status?  You do NOT have to respond. Instead, say: “I choose to remain silent.”  Otherwise, you are helping ICE and the OPLA Attorney collect evidence to remove you from the country.

You can also hand them a “Know Your Rights” card that states you will not answer questions without a lawyer.”

3. Do NOT Sign Anything Without a Lawyer

“One of the biggest mistakes people make when dealing with ICE is signing documents without understanding them. For example, many noncitizens sign Form I-826 and thereby waive their right to appear before an immigration judge.

Never sign anything ICE gives you without first speaking to an immigration attorney. You could be signing away your rights or agreeing to voluntary deportation.

If you are detained, immediately ask for a lawyer and a list of pro bono immigration attorneys. You also have the right to contact your country’s consulate for assistance.”

4. Do NOT Show False Documents

“In moments of fear, some people panic and try to provide false documents or false information to ICE officers.  Do NOT do this.  Providing false documents can hurt your case later or cause you to be charged by a federal district court.  Lying to ICE could lead to criminal charges.  Instead, just remain silent and refuse to hand over identification that reveals your immigration status.”

5. If You Are Outside Your Home

“Remember, ICE can arrest people in public places, like: workplaces, parking lots, and grocery stores.  If you are stopped:  Stay calm and do NOT run.  Ask: “Am I free to go?”  If they say yes, walk away slowly.  If they say no, assert your right to remain silent.  Even if they arrest you, you still have the right to a lawyer and a phone call.

ICE is counting on people not knowing their rights. But today, you’ve learned exactly what to do. Let’s recap:

• Do NOT open the door unless ICE has a valid warrant signed by a judge.
• Do NOT answer questions—remain silent.
• Do NOT sign anything without speaking to an immigration lawyer.
• Do NOT show false documents or lie.
• If stopped in public, ask if you are free to go.

If you need legal help, contact me at Lavy Law—we are here to fight for you.

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