Helping Immigrant Communities to Know Their Rights and Responsibilities

The administration has targeted immigrant communities and Sanctuary Cities for increased enforcement. It has reset priorities, reversed policies that prohibited Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from entering schools and places of worship, re-introduced national registration requirements for all non-citizens, and criminalized the failure of immigrants to update the government every time they change their addresses.

Perhaps you are concerned about a friend, colleague or acquaintance who may be undocumented? In these uncertain times, it is more important than ever for each of us to know our rights, and to share knowledge of those rights with those who are most vulnerable.

A Few Key Things to Know and Share With Others:

• We Each Have the Right to Remain Silent
  If stopped by ICE, you do not have to answer questions about your immigration status. In some states and situations, you must provide basic identification, such as your name and address, but you never have to disclose your place of birth, citizenship or immigration status.
• We Each Have the Right to Refuse a Search Without a Warrant
  ICE agents generally need a judicial warrant (rather than an administrative/ICE warrant) to search your home or property. You can ask to see the warrant before letting them in. If they do not have one, you have the right to deny entry.
• We Each Have the Right to Legal Counsel
  If detained, you have the right to request an attorney before making decisions or signing any documents.
• We Each Have the Right to Be Free from Coercion
  ICE cannot force you to sign documents, such as a voluntary departure agreement, unless you fully understand the implications. Always ask questions and take time to understand what you’re signing.

For a more complete list, click on and download the flyer here.

Know Your Rights (Red) cards like the one above are available in multiple languages through the Immigrant Legal Resource Center. Carter Law Group has Red Cards available in Portuguese/English, Spanish/English and Arabic/English for our clients. Please contact Carrie for availability or stop by our new office location at 28 Turnpike Rd. (Route 9) in Southborough anytime between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm Monday through Friday.