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The United States Constitution guarantees basic rights to everyone in United States regardless of their immigration status. It is important to understand what these rights are so that you can respond appropriately.
YOUR RIGHTS IN PUBLIC – WHEN ICE STOPS YOU IN PUBLIC
If you are undocumented and ICE officers stop you in a public place, stay calm and do not resist or be obstructive in any way. Know you have the following rights:
You have the right to remain silent:
If you wish to exercise this right, say so aloud.
- You do not need to answer any questions. ICE can use anything you say against you. For instance, if you are asked where you were born or how you entered the United States, you may refuse to answer and remain silent.
- Ask the officer if you can leave, if the officer says no, advise him that you will exercise your right to remain silent. Stay calm. If they say yes, leave calmly.
- You do not have to show any documents that will reveal your country of origin or immigration status.
- If you decide to respond to the officer, do not lie and do not show any false documents.
- Ask to speak to your attorney before signing any documents.
You may refuse to be searched:
If you are stopped but not arrested, you do not have to consent to a search of your person or belonging but the officer may pat you down if he or she suspects you have a weapon. Remember to stay calm.
You have the right to speak to a lawyer:
- If you detained or taken into custody, you have the right to ask to contact an attorney. If you don’t have an attorney, advise the ICE agents that you wish to speak to one. You may ask them for a list of pro bono lawyers, if you cannot afford to hire one. You also have the right to contact your consulate. They may assist you in obtaining a lawyer.
- If you have an attorney, you have the right to talk to them. If you have a signed Form G-28 which shows you have an attorney, give it to the officer.
- Advice the ICE agents that you will not sign any documents without talking to your lawyer. If you choose to sign any documents without speaking to a lawyer, be sure you understand exactly what the document says before you sign it.
Contact the Odunlami Law Firm to learn more about your rights or if you might be eligible for immigration benefits.
Immigration Attorney Ifeoma Odunlami in Morristown, NJ
Contact Odunlami Law Firm to learn more about your rights or if you might be eligible for immigration benefits or relief: (973) 993 1900