If you are detained by ICE, the experience can be terrifying, but you have constitutional and legal rights that apply regardless of your immigration status. Knowing them can make a crucial difference in the outcome of your case.
What You Have the Right to Do
If ICE comes to your door or detains you: you have the right to remain silent; you have the right to refuse ICE entry to your home if they don't have a warrant signed by a judge (an ICE "administrative order" is NOT the same); you have the right to call an attorney; and you have the right to contact your country's consulate. Clearly say: "I invoke my right to remain silent" and "I do not consent to entry."
What ICE Cannot Do
ICE cannot: enter your home without a warrant signed by a federal judge; compel you to sign documents without understanding them or consulting an attorney; punish you for exercising your right to silence; nor deport you without giving you the opportunity to appear before an immigration judge (except in certain cases of accelerated removal at the border).
If Detained: First Steps
If detained: memorize or write down an immigration attorney's number and your A-number (if you have one). When you arrive at the detention center, ask to speak with an attorney and request a bond hearing before an immigration judge. Do NOT sign any "voluntary departure" or "voluntary removal" documents without consulting an attorney.