What to Do If You or a Loved One Is Detained by ICE
When you or someone you love is detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), knowing what steps to take can help protect your rights and support your immigration case. Carolina Antonini, Founding Partner of Antonini & Cohen Immigration Law Group, shares how preparing ahead of time, understanding your rights, and knowing how to locate someone in ICE custody can help you navigate a difficult situation.
If you have concerns about ICE detention or need legal assistance for yourself or a loved one, contact Antonini & Cohen at (470) 428-3200 to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced Atlanta immigration attorneys.
At Antonini & Cohen, we know how. We fight harder.
Prepare Before a Possible ICE Arrest
One of the most important steps you can take is preparing before an arrest happens. A plan can help your loved ones respond quickly and handle important responsibilities if you are detained.
Start by choosing a trusted person as your emergency point of contact. Choose someone you can call from detention who knows what to do if you are arrested. Memorize their phone number, since you may not have access to your cell phone in detention.
Before an arrest happens, discuss your wishes and provide instructions for important responsibilities, including:
Childcare: Who should care for your children if you are detained?
Bills and finances: Who can help manage bills, accounts, and other financial responsibilities?
Important documents: Where can your trusted contact find tax records, passports, immigration documents, and other information your attorney may need?
Most importantly, don't wait until you're detained to speak with an immigration attorney. Consulting an attorney early gives you a chance to review your immigration history, understand potential risks, and discuss your legal options if ICE arrests you.
Know Your Rights If You Are Detained by ICE
If you are detained by ICE, it is important to understand your rights and seek legal assistance.
You have the right to an immigration attorney. If ICE agents start questioning you about your immigration history, let them know you wish to remain silent and to speak to an immigration attorney instead.
Do not sign documents you do not understand. Speak with an immigration attorney before signing paperwork or answering questions that could affect your immigration case.
How to Locate a Loved One Detained by ICE
If ICE detains a loved one, contact their immigration attorney immediately. If they do not have an attorney, seek legal assistance as soon as possible.
Next, find out where they are being held. You can use the ICE Online Detainee Locator System to search for someone using either:
Their A-number (Alien Registration Number) and country of birth.
Their full name, date of birth, and country of birth.
Keep in mind that it may take several days for a detained individual's information to appear in the system. If you cannot locate your loved one immediately, continue checking for updates.
Once you identify the detention facility, contact it directly to ask about important procedures, including visitation hours, visitation requirements, telephone access, and other ways to communicate with your loved one. You can also ask how to deposit money into their commissary account so they can purchase certain personal items and other necessities while detained.
Gather Important Documents for Their Immigration Attorney
After locating your loved one, work closely with their immigration attorney to gather any documents or evidence needed for their case. Depending on the circumstances, these may include immigration records, identification documents, tax records, passports, previous applications, or notices from immigration authorities.
Respond promptly to your attorney's requests and provide the information they need. Having the necessary evidence available helps your attorney evaluate the case and identify potential legal options.
Keep Track of Immigration Court Hearing Dates
If your loved one has an immigration court case, staying informed about upcoming hearings is essential. You can check available hearing information through the EOIR Automated Case Information System using their A-number.
Immigration court hearing dates can change, especially when someone is detained or transferred between facilities. Check the system regularly, review official court notices, and remain in communication with their attorney to avoid missing important updates.
Get Legal Help If You or a Loved One Is Detained by ICE
ICE detention can create uncertainty for individuals and families, but being detained does not automatically mean you will be deported. Depending on your circumstances, you may have legal options to request release from detention and/or defend against removal from the United States.
At Antonini & Cohen Immigration Law Group, our experienced Atlanta immigration attorneys understand the importance of acting quickly to help you and your loved ones understand the legal options available.
If you or someone you love is detained by ICE, contact Antonini & Cohen at (470) 428-3200 to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced immigration attorneys.
At Antonini & Cohen, we know how. We fight harder.
