Know Your Rights
Video Presentation
Additional Resources & Information
Detailed reference materials, emergency contacts, and printable resources.
Quick Reference
- "I am exercising my right to remain silent."
- "I do not consent to a search."
- "Do you have a warrant signed by a judge?"
- "I want to speak to a lawyer."
Emergency Contacts
Your Rights Card
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Source Information
Reviewed by: [ADD ATTORNEY NAME - Organization]
Sources: [ADD SOURCE CITATIONS]
Last updated: January 2025
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult with a qualified attorney for legal guidance.
Your Constitutional Rights
Regardless of your immigration status, you have rights protected by the U.S. Constitution. Understanding these rights can help protect you and your family.
The Right to Remain Silent
The Fifth Amendment protects your right to remain silent. You do not have to answer questions about where you were born, your immigration status, or how you entered the United States.
- You can say: "I am exercising my right to remain silent."
- This applies to interactions with police, ICE, and other law enforcement.
- Remaining silent cannot be used against you in court.
The Right to Refuse Consent to Search
The Fourth Amendment protects you from unreasonable searches. Without a warrant, you can refuse to let officers search your home, car, or belongings.
- You can say: "I do not consent to a search."
- If they have a warrant, ask to see it and read it carefully.
- A warrant must specify the address and be signed by a judge.
If ICE Comes to Your Home
You do not have to open the door. Ask the officer to identify themselves and show their badge through a window or under the door.
- Ask: "Do you have a warrant signed by a judge?"
- An ICE administrative warrant (Form I-200 or I-205) does not give them the right to enter.
- Only a judicial warrant allows entry without consent.
- Stay calm. Do not run or resist physically.
If You Are Stopped in Public
You have the right to ask: "Am I free to leave?" If the answer is yes, you may calmly walk away.
- You do not have to answer questions about your immigration status.
- You do not have to show identification in most states (check your state's laws).
- If you are detained, say: "I want to speak to a lawyer."
If You Are Arrested
You have the right to a lawyer. If you cannot afford one, the court must provide one for criminal cases.
- Give your name if asked, but you can decline to answer other questions.
- Do not sign any documents without a lawyer present.
- You have the right to make a phone call.
- Remember: Anything you say can be used against you.
Remember
- Stay calm. Do not run, argue, or resist.
- You have rights. Use them respectfully.
- Get help. Contact a lawyer or legal aid organization.
- Document everything. Write down badge numbers, names, and what happened.