Know Your Rights: An Essential Guide to Threats of Deportation
by lauren eagan
The Trump administration’s recent threats of mass raids have created a climate of confusion and fear in immigrant communities. However, knowledge is power, and being informed about your rights can make the difference between deportation and life in the United States. As a legal advocate for immigrants, I have seen how panic can lead to costly mistakes during encounters with immigration authorities. Therefore, it is essential to remain calm and remember some basic principles that can protect your rights.
Silence is your best ally The Constitution protects your right to remain silent, regardless of immigration status. You are not required to disclose where you were born, how you entered the country, or what your immigration status is. This protection applies both on the street and in your home or workplace.
At home Neither police nor ICE can enter your home without a warrant signed by a judge. Nor does an administrative order from ICE (Form I-200) grant authority to do so. If ICE or police officers knock on your door, don’t open it. If they say they have a warrant, ask them to slide it under the door or show it through the peephole.
At work At work, ICE’s tactics have become more aggressive, but your rights remain intact. If a raid occurs, stay calm and don’t run away. ICE needs a court order or permission from the employer to enter non-public areas.
On the street For drivers, checkpoints have become more frequent. If they ask you to stop the vehicle, do so. Keep your hands visible, show your license, insurance, and registration if you have them, but never fake documents. You are not required to answer questions about your immigration status.
In case of arrest Remember that you have the right to remain silent, to contact a lawyer, and not to sign documents you don’t understand. If you are detained by ICE, make sure your family has your immigration number or “A-number” (9 digits), so you can be located in the system. As a community, we must be prepared but not terrified. Preparation includes having a family arrest plan, keeping copies of important documents in a safe place, and memorizing essential phone numbers, including your attorney and consulate. Knowledge and preparation are our best defenses against current immigration policies. As a lawyer, my most important advice is: know your rights and exercise them calmly and with dignity. You’re not alone in this struggle. There are organizations and legal professionals willing to help.
Lauren Eagan, named to the 2025 edition of America®’s Best Lawyers for Immigration Law, is the founder and CEO of Eagan Immigration. https://eaganimmigration.com/
