Written by NotALawyer Legal AI · Reviewed by External Legal AI · Published May 12, 2026 · Last reviewed June 26, 2026
If ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) comes to your home, your workplace, or stops you in public, you have constitutional rights — no matter your immigration status. The Constitution protects everyone on U.S. soil. Knowing these rights and how to use them calmly is the best way to protect yourself and your family.
ICE often carries an administrative warrant (Form I-200 or I-205) signed by an immigration officer — not a judge. That does NOT let them enter your home. Only a warrant signed by a judge or magistrate, listing your name and address, gives them entry authority. Keep the door closed and ask them to slide the warrant underneath so you can read it.
You don't have to answer questions about where you were born, your immigration status, or how you entered the country. Say: "I want to remain silent" and "I want to speak to a lawyer." This works at home, at work, and in public.
ICE may push you to sign documents — like a voluntary departure form or a stipulated removal order. Signing can give up your right to a hearing and to appeal. Don't sign anything you don't fully understand, and never sign without legal advice.
Memorize a lawyer's phone number — don't rely only on a phone you might lose. Pick someone to care for your children if you're detained. Keep copies of key documents — birth certificates, IDs, immigration paperwork — where a trusted person can reach them.
You have the right to contact an attorney and your country's consulate. Immigration court usually does not provide a free lawyer, but many nonprofits, law school clinics, and pro bono programs take removal cases. The sooner a lawyer gets involved, the better.
More on this topic: the Immigration hub
NotALawyer.com provides general legal information, not legal advice.