With the increase immigration activities and the shooting that occurred in our neighborhood today, we want to remind everyone of their rights.
It is important that both citizens and non-citizens understand their rights. Various partners have provided information on your rights. The American Civil Liberties Union has a great resource and information on your basic rights under the U.S. Constitution and civil rights laws.
1. You Have the Right to Remain Silent
- You have the right to remain silent and do not have to discuss your immigration or citizenship status with police, immigration agents, or other officials. Anything you tell an officer can later be used against you in immigration court.
- Don’t lie about your status or provide false documents. If you are not a U.S. citizen and an immigration agent requests your immigration papers, you must show them if you have them with you.
- If an immigration agent asks if they can search you, you have the right to say no. Agents do not have the right to search you or your belongings without your consent or probable cause.
- If you’re over 18, carry your papers with you at all times. If you don’t have them, tell the officer that you want to remain silent, or that you want to consult a lawyer before answering any questions.
- In Texas, you must not lie to the officer about your identity.If you give your name, you don’t have to answer other questions.
2. You Do Not Have to Open the Door Without a Judge-Signed Warrant
ICE cannot enter your home without your permission unless they have a judicial warrant signed by a judge.
Here’s what to know:
- A judicial warrant is signed by a judge and lists your correct name and address.
- An administrative ICE warrant (often labeled I-200 or I-205) is not signed by a judge and does not give ICE permission to enter your home.
- Ask if they are immigration agents and what they are there for.
- Ask the agent or officer to show you a badge or identification through the window or peephole.
- Don’t lie or produce any false documents. Don’t sign anything without speaking with a lawyer first.
3. You Have the Right to Speak to a Lawyer
If ICE detains you:
- You have the right to speak with a lawyer before answering any questions
- You do not have to sign documents you do not understand
You can clearly say:
“I want to speak to a lawyer.”
While the government does not provide free immigration attorneys, many nonprofit organizations and legal clinics offer low-cost or free assistance.
4. Be Careful About Showing Documents
In most situations, you are not required to show immigration documents.
If you choose to carry documents:
- Carry copies rather than originals
- Never present false documents or give false information
Providing incorrect or false information can seriously harm your case.
5. Know Your Rights at Work
If ICE comes to your workplace:
- You still have the right to remain silent
- You do not have to answer questions without a lawyer
- ICE generally needs proper authorization to access non-public areas
Employers also have specific legal rights and responsibilities during worksite enforcement actions.
6. You Have the Right to Refuse Searches
ICE may ask for permission to search your home, vehicle, phone, or personal belongings.
You can say:
“I do not consent to any searches.”
Even if officers proceed, stating that you do not consent helps protect your rights later.
7. Create a Family Preparedness Plan
Being prepared can reduce stress during an emergency. Consider:
- Choosing a trusted emergency contact
- Making childcare or eldercare plans
- Keeping important documents and phone numbers in a safe, accessible place
- Sharing your plan with family members
8. Stay Calm and Respectful
You are not required to cooperate beyond what the law demands. Staying calm and respectful can help prevent escalation. Do not run, resist, or physically interfere with officers.
Final Thoughts
Knowing your rights is not about avoiding the law—it’s about protecting yourself and your family during stressful situations. Immigration laws and enforcement practices can change, and every situation is different.
If you or a loved one is facing immigration enforcement, seek guidance from a qualified immigration attorney or a trusted legal organization as soon as possible.
Being informed is a powerful form of protection.
To report ICE activity or receive support, please call the defense hotline: 737-276-1717
In a previous WNA meeting, we had a presentation on Know Your Rights. See below presentation