What to Do if ICE Shows Up at Your Door

Posted ByLaw Offices of Elsa Martinez

As President Trump and his administration continue to target immigrant families, arrests by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) police have risen sharply compared to this time last year. Since the Trump administration occupied the White House back in January, ICE arrests have shot up by nearly 40% across the United States. Newly empowered ICE officials are brazen with their most recent arrests, detaining two Hayward men while on their way to work and a Pasadena man while he sat in court.

Steps to Take if ICE Shows Up at Your Door

With immigration arrests on the rise, it’s crucial that you know what to do if ICE ever appears at your home. Know your rights in order to prevent unwanted and unnecessary troubles. Below are the steps to take if ICE shows up at your door:

  1. Keep the door closed and ask the agents what they are there for. If you open the door, that does not give ICE permission to walk inside.
  2. Ask for an interpreter if you do not speak the same language as the ICE agents. One should be provided to you.
  3. If ICE agents want to enter your residence, ask them if they have a warrant signed by a judge. If the “warrant” is an order signed by ICE (example), it is not enough for entry into your premises. Only a warrant signed by a judge (example) can be used to enter your home.
  4. If ICE does not have a warrant, politely state “I do not consent to your entry” and keep the door closed. If they force their way in, do not resist. Simply say “I do not consent to your entry. I am exercising my right to remain silent. I wish to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.”
  5. If ICE does have a warrant, ask them to slide it under the dooror hand it to you. Read the warrant and make sure it applies to you or a person in your residence.
  6. If ICE’s warrant is credible, allow them inside of your residence. Do not lie or show false documents. Ask for a lawyer before signing any papers.

If you or someone you know is in looming danger of an ICE arrest, it’s vital that you enlist the legal help of our Los Angeles immigration attorneys from the Law Offices of Elsa Martinez immediately.

Call (213) 985-4550 or contact us online to set up a case consultation with one of our immigration attorneys.

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