ICE

What is ICE?

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is a U.S. government agency that enforces immigration laws. They act like immigration “police.”

WHAT ARE MY RIGHTS IF I am stopped by an immigration officer in public?

If immigration officers stop you on the street or in a public place, know you have the following rights:

• You have the right to remain silent. You do not need to speak to the immigration officers or answer any questions.

• You may refuse a search. If you are stopped for questioning but are not arrested, you do not have to consent to a search of yourself or your belongings, but an officer may “pat down” your clothes if they suspect you have a weapon.

• You have the right to speak to a lawyer. If you are detained or taken into custody, you have the right to immediately contact a lawyer.

WHAT ARE MY RIGHTS IF an immigration officer comes to my home?

If immigration agents knock on your door, know that you have the following rights:

• You do not have to open the door. You do not have to open the door or let the officers into your home unless they have a valid search warrant signed by a judge.

• You have the right to remain silent. You do not need to speak to the immigration officers or answer any questions.

• You have the right to speak to a lawyer. If you are detained or taken into custody, you have the right to immediately contact a lawyer.

WHAT ARE MY RIGHTS IF an immigration officer shows up at my workplace?

If immigration officers come to your work place, they must have a valid search warrant or the consent of your employer to enter non-public areas. Be aware of the following:

• Do not panic and do not run away. If you are frightened and feel like you need to leave, you can calmly walk toward the exit.

• You have the right to remain silent. You do not need to speak to the immigration authorities or answer any questions.

• You have the right to speak to a lawyer. If you are detained or taken into custody, you have the right to immediately contact a lawyer.

How can i pROTECT MYSELF AGAINST IMMIGRATION FRAUD?

Be careful when getting help with your immigration case! Beware of people in Maine who try to trick you by pretending to help with immigration cases. These people can steal your money and hurt your immigration case.

The best way to protect yourself is by having information about what these people do and being careful about who you allow to help you with your immigration case.