Know your Rights
Regardless of your immigration or citizenship status, you have constitutional rights.
- You have the right to remain silent. If you wish to exercise that right, say so out loud.
- You have the right to refuse to consent to a search of yourself, your car or your home.
- If you are not under arrest, you have the right to calmly leave.
- You have the right to a lawyer if you are arrested. Ask for one immediately.
Read more about your rights and how to prepare for different situations here:
Know Your Rights Cards
"All people in the United States, regardless of immigration status, have certain rights and protections under the U.S. Constitution. The ILRC¡¯s Red Cards help people assert their rights and defend themselves in many situations, such as when ICE agents go to a home.¡±
In an encounter with law enforcement, these cards come in handy. They explain that you wish to exercise your constitutional rights. It¡¯s a good measure to carry one of these with you at all times. You can check our office or print one out for yourself at .
Family Preparedness Plan
Every family should have a Family Preparedness Plan. While it is our hope that you never have to use your plan, it is a good practice to have one in place to help reduce the stress of the unexpected. This packet will help everyone create a Family Preparedness Plan, regardless of immigration status. However, because of the additional challenges immigrant and mixed status families face, we also have additional advice for immigrants.
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Financial Handbook
Resource with information on protecting assets and benefits for someone facing detention and deportation, from managing your bank account and power of attorney to receiving money in detention. .