Dear John,

In the United States, everyone has certain fundamental rights protected by the Constitution - no matter who the president is or what your legal status is. In order to protect and support our immigrant neighbors, it's crucial that we all know how to assert these rights. If you find you have to deal with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or other law enforcement officers at home, on the street, or anywhere else, remember these rights described below.

Know Your Rights

1. You have the right to remain silent. You may refuse to speak to immigration officers by stating "I wish to remain silent."
2. You have the right to a lawyer. You have the right to a legal process and to have your case presented before an immigration judge. You may have your lawyer with you if ICE or other law enforcement questions you.

Stay Calm

Being stopped by immigration officers or other law enforcement can be frightening, but it's important to stay calm. During any encounter with law enforcement, you should do the following:

• Stay calm and don't run, argue, resist, or fight the officer, even if you believe your rights are being violated or you are being treated unfairly.
• Keep your hands where police can see them and tell them if you need to reach into a glove compartment or for a wallet to show your papers.
• Don't lie about your status or provide false documents, including fake names.
• Do not volunteer any information - you do not need to provide your immigration status or place of birth. You may always ask "Am I free to go?"

If ICE Contacts You

If you are a U.S. citizen or have lawful immigration status: show your passport, legal permanent resident card, work permit, or other documentation of your status. If you are over the age of 18, you should carry your papers with you at all times.

If you are undocumented: you have the right to remain silent and do not have to discuss your immigration or citizenship status with the police, immigration agents, or other officials. Anything you tell an officer can later be used against you in immigration court.

If ICE Visits Your Home or Work

ICE cannot enter private spaces such as your home or private area of your school or workplace without a judicial warrant signed by a judge. If ICE does not have a warrant signed by a judge that includes your correct name and exact address, you have the right to say, "I do not consent to entry" and the right to keep your door closed.

If an ICE agent wants to show you a warrant, they can hold it against a window or slide it under the door.

Don't Sign Anything

You are not required to sign documents in English, Spanish, or other languages without a lawyer present. Be sure you understand what a document actually says before signing it.

If You See ICE Officers

If you are outdoors and think you see immigration officers nearby, move to a safe indoor space.

If you are a U.S. citizen and feel safe to do so, you may record the activity with your phone or write down any relevant information about what you witness. You are legally allowed to film ICE as long as you do not interfere with an officer's duties.

DO NOT: post unverified information on social media, interfere with an officer's duties, or otherwise put yourself in harm's way.

____________________

Do you know a U.S. citizen, veteran or military service member, or permanent resident who is in ICE custody or is being repatriated?

Do you have questions?

Call my office: (504) 288-3777

Legal Disclaimer: This document contains general information. Its content does not provide legal advice.

____________________

Resources:

Community Support

Find Local Legal Help

Find National Legal Help

Finding a Loved One After an Immigration Arrest

Being the voice for the people of Louisiana's Second Congressional District is a privilege and I am honored to serve you. For the latest updates on my work, follow my social media accounts at @RepTroyCarter or with the links below! 

Sincerely,

Troy A. Carter, Sr.
Member of Congress