How to Prepare for an ICE Raid
The current administration recently promised to hire 15,000 more Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers, who will be tasked with making sure that employers comply with immigration laws in hiring employees. With approximately 11 million undocumented people living in the United States, immigrants of any status must be aware of the increasing chance of an ICE raid occurring at their home, place of business or employment, or even in a public place.
We’re not trying to scare you. We want you to feel confident and prepared to face whatever might happen. You have rights in the U.S, and knowing what they are allows you to protect yourself and your loved ones, and keep a cool head if you should become involved in an ICE raid.
If a raid occurs and you are “swept up,” regardless of your status in this country, you should:
- Tell the ICE agent that you intend to remain silent
- Ask to speak with your immigration lawyer
- Know your “Alien registration number” and write it down at home where a family member can find it
- Advise family members to stay away from the place where the raid occurred or where you are being held if they want to avoid being questioned by ICE
- Not sign any documents without consulting with your lawyer first
- Prepare authorization for another adult to care for your minor children
(National Immigration Law Center)
ICE agents must have a search warrant before they can enter your property. Ask to see it, and make sure that it is signed. You can contact your attorney, but they will not stop the raid to wait for your attorney to appear. Remember, do not answer questions or sign anything without your lawyer being present. Ask someone in your home or workplace to take pictures or video and take the names and badge numbers of the ICE officers.
It’s probably easier said than done, but you should try to remain calm. When you’re in control of yourself and your reactions, it’s more likely that you will make smarter choices than if you react in panic or fear.
Knoxville immigration attorney Patrick Slaughter at LaFevor & Slaughter, is here to answer your questions and advise you about the immigration process. You are encouraged to call 865-637-6258, or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation today. We are here to uphold your rights and to fight for your future. You don’t have to go through this alone.
As the Managing Attorney with LaFevor & Slaughter, Jason R. Hines handles new client consultations, strategic planning and implementation and represents clients in all the Firm’s practice areas.
As an attorney practicing law in Tennessee since 2009, Jason has represented clients from all walks of life in a wide range of cases in the State and Federal Courts of Tennessee. His practice areas include divorce, family law and immigration.