Everyone has certain rights, regardless of their immigration status. You may not always avoid contact with the law or immigration officers, but remember the constitution guarantee Immigrant Civil Rights in the US. However, being in such a situation can be stressful. That’s why you should know how to react. For instance, being prepared means knowing you don’t have to answer any questions. Instead, you may ask for legal representation. If you feel such an encounter is violating your rights, filing a complaint is possible.
Some rights, though, are not available to undocumented immigrants. For those unsure of what their current status is, an immigration attorney can clarify things. Eric Price’s team is available to you for guidance on such matters via email. It’s best never to assume all existing legal pathways may be open to you. So, call Insert Phone Number for counsel!
Documented vs. Undocumented Immigrant Rights
Do Illegal Immigrants have Rights? They sure do. Unlike legal ones, they cannot vote or get medical insurance since they don’t have an SSN. Moreover, they cannot remain in the US legally. However, equal protection and a right to legal representation still apply to them.
What To Say & What Not To Say
Being aware of your Rights against ICE Agents is essential in today’s political climate. If you run into an immigration/law enforcement official, don’t panic. Additionally, don’t resist or run away, either. Instead, stay calm and offer no arguments or obstructions. That’s also true if you believe their conducts violates your rights. Stay visible to them throughout the ordeal. Avoiding falsehoods or showing false documents are two things you shouldn’t ever do!
Those who are without valid immigration documentation should mention that. Others should show their paper if the officer in question asks for those.
If You’re Stopped For Questioning
What to do if you’re stopped by the police? In most situations, including this one, you can choose not to say anything. Many states don’t mandate that you even have to provide your name. What’s more, you can ask if the officer is going to detain or arrest you. Should they say no, ask to leave, and do so. Having your immigration papers at hand can usually de-escalate these situations more quickly.
If You’re Stopped In Your Car
In the first place, you should have a valid license if you were driving. Immediately, pull over and don’t panic. Show the license to the official along with any other papers if they ask for them, such as proof of insurance or car registration. Refrain from adding any other comments. If they show interest in searching the vehicle, say you don’t consent to it. The only way they can legally proceed after that is if they suspect your car is connected to a particular crime.
If The Police Or ICE Come To Your Home
What to Say to Ice Agents when they reach you at your home? Start off by not letting them in. You are only required to do that if they come with a search/arrest warrant. In fact, avoid any misunderstandings by not even opening the door. Should the visitors claim to have one, ask them to slip it under your door. Look for your name and address – correctly spelled – and a judge’s signature. Anything else, like deportation or removal warrants, doesn’t give ICE the right to come in. They cannot force your landlord to let them in, either. Let ICE know the reason for your refusal. Finally, know that with an arrest warrant in your name, the police can come in. The same is true for other members of the house.
If The Police Or ICE Come To Your Workplace
What Rights do Legal Immigrants have? Well, just like with your home, those rights can keep immigration officers from getting into your workplace sans permission. Warn your owner/manager against granting them permission. Then, choose to answer questions – or not — if the officials still want to know about your immigration status. Should they want documentation, tell them you won’t show it before speaking to your attorney.
If You’re Contacted By The FBI
Your Rights as an Immigrant also ensure you other protections. For instance, if the FBI calls you to talk about anything, including immigration, you can say no. You don’t have to go to an interview they request, either. The same applies to any other similar organizations. If you choose to attend such an interview, we’d advise doing so with legal representation. But, as we mentioned, it’s up to you.
If You’re Arrested
Undocumented Immigrant Rights may not include an audience with an immigration judge. That depends on the case against you. More often, though, the officers may not know – or tell you – if you can do this. That’s okay. Instead, ask them to supply you the name of a lawyer whom you can call right away. The truth is you cannot know if an exception may apply to you or not. Contacting a lawyer can make things go more smoothly.
Moreover, when you ask for your call, make sure to dial locally. Finally, the police is not privy to your conversation. So, calmly explain your situation to the person who can help you!
What To Do If You Feel Your Rights Have Been Violated
What Constitutional Rights do Undocumented Immigrants have? For one, they can complain when they experience a rights’ violation personally. To make things easier, jot down every detail you remember. That includes the officers’ agency name, their own names, badge number, and patrol vehicle digits. Do the same for the contact information of witnesses. Don’t rule out anything else that jumps out, either.
Were you injured during the procedure? Then go to a hospital for medical attention. Photograph your condition and include that with your written complaint. Address it to the agency’s internal affairs division. If they don’t have one, then send it to a civilian complaint board. Choose if you will do this under your name or not.
Contact Attorney Eric Price Today!
An immigration court lawyer is familiar with most kinds of situations that an immigrant may be facing. That’s why it’s best to seek their guidance.
