EMPOWERMENT
Know Your Rights
Understanding your rights is the first step toward protecting yourself and your family.
Your Rights in Key Situations
Click each topic to learn more about your rights
- You have the right to remain silent. You do not have to answer questions about your immigration status.
- You have the right to refuse a search of yourself, your car, or your home without a warrant.
- You have the right to ask for a lawyer. Say: "I want to speak with a lawyer."
- You have the right to refuse to sign any documents without speaking to a lawyer first.
- Do not run away, lie, or provide false documents. Stay calm and polite.
- If you are arrested, you have the right to make a phone call.
- ICE cannot enter your home without a warrant signed by a judge. Ask them to slide the warrant under the door.
- You have the right to remain silent. Do not open the door unless they show a valid judicial warrant.
- Do not sign any documents without speaking to a lawyer first.
- If ICE enters without permission, say: "I do not consent to this search."
- Prepare a family safety plan: Know who will care for children if a family member is detained.
- Keep important documents in a safe, accessible place.
- Memorize important phone numbers, including your lawyer's number.
- Carry copies of your important documents, not originals. Keep originals in a safe place at home.
- Important documents include: passport, I-94, work permit, driver's license, court papers.
- Make digital copies and store them securely (cloud storage, email to trusted family).
- Do not carry false documents — this can lead to serious legal consequences.
- If you have a valid work permit or driver's license, carry it with you.
- Consider carrying a "Know Your Rights" card (download below) to hand to officers.
Download Your Rights Cards
Wallet-size cards you can carry with you. Available in multiple languages.
Video Resources
Learn from community leaders and those who have been through the process
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every situation is different. Please consult with a qualified immigration attorney for advice about your specific circumstances.
Last reviewed: May 2026