What You Should Do if Stopped by ICE

What You Should Do if Stopped by ICE

Encounters with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) can be stressful and confusing, even if you are a U.S. citizen. For citizens of Mexican, Native American, or other communities who are often targeted because of how they look, speak, or where they are from, it is especially important to understand your rights and how to respond calmly and safely. Everyone in the United States (regardless of citizenship) has constitutional protections, including the right to remain silent and the right to ask for a lawyer. How you act, speak, and respond during an encounter can help protect you and those around you.

If ICE approaches you in public, try to stay calm and avoid sudden movements or running away, which can escalate the situation. You have the right to ask, “Am I being detained, or am I free to go?” If the agent says you are free to leave, walk away calmly and silently. If they say you are being detained, you still have the right to remain silent, clearly say, “I choose to remain silent, and I want to speak to a lawyer,” and then stop answering questions. Do not lie, present false documents, or sign anything you do not understand, because that can create serious legal problems even for citizens.

You also have rights if ICE tries to search you or your belongings. In many situations, you may refuse consent to a search unless the officers have a valid warrant or probable cause. You can say, “I do not consent to a search,” and avoid physically resisting, which could put you at risk. If you are at home, you generally do not have to open the door unless officers show a judicial warrant with your name and address; you can ask them to slide it under the door or hold it up to a window. Remember that asserting your rights politely is not a crime; staying firm but respectful can make it easier to challenge any violations later.

To reduce confusion and protect yourself from wrongful detention, it helps to carry identification that clearly shows your legal status whenever you travel or move through areas where enforcement is active. Consider keeping:

• State-issued driver’s license or ID card

• Tribal citizenship ID

• U.S. passport or passport card

• Certificate of naturalization or citizenship (or a secure copy kept in a safe place)

• Lawful permanent resident card (if applicable)

• Any work authorization card or other immigration document that proves lawful status

Make sure documents are current, stored safely, and accessible to you—not left where others can misuse them. Some advocates also suggest carrying a small “know your rights” card to hand to officers, stating that you choose to remain silent and want a lawyer.

If you believe you are watching ICE harass or wrongfully target a U.S. citizen, try to document what you see without putting yourself in danger. From a safe distance, note the time, location, badge numbers if visible, and exactly what was said or done; if local law allows, you may record video on your phone. At the end of the day, these situations are about more than just legal paperwork; they’re about your family and your peace of mind. While these encounters can be intimidating, remember that you are a vital part of this community.

At Daylight Bail Bonds, we believe that staying informed is your best defense. If you or a loved one ever find yourselves in a situation where the legal system feels overwhelming, don’t face it alone. Whether you need a quick release or just a clear answer on what to do next, Troy and the team are here to help you get back to what matters most. Stay safe, stay informed, and know that Daylight is always just a phone call away.