Action Plans
For all immigrants—citizens, permanent residents, or undocumented, encounters with law enforcement and immigration officials are more than just stressful—they can be life-altering. With shifting policies and increasing scrutiny, it is more important than ever to understand and exercise your rights.
When authorities visit your home
Law enforcement officers (Immigration or Police) can not enter your home without a warrant signed by a judge. Tell the agent to slide the warrant under the door or show it through a window.
If there is a Warrant
If there is a warrant make sure that the warrant includes your exact address, your name, or the name of someone who is in the house. If the order has your name or the name of a person who’s at the house, it is better if the person named in the order steps out so as the officers do not enter the house.
If there is NO Warrant
If the agent has no warrant with your address or the warrant does not have your name or the name of someone who is in the house, do not open the door and say that you do not consent to the search. If the authorities enter without a warrant, ask for the agents’ names and badge numbers. Say again that you do not provide your consent to the authorities’ entrance into your home. Call your attorney immediately.
When stopped in traffic
- Stay Calm
- If you are driving the car, you must show your driver’s license, registration, and insurance. You do not have to show a passport or give other information.
- If you do not have a driver’s license, you can say that you do not have one.
- Keep your hands visible and stay in the car unless the officer tells you otherwise.
- Be polite, even if the police officer isn’t.
- Let the officer know if you don’t understand English.
- If you are not the driver of the car, you may ask if you are free to leave.
- Never carry a false document in your car.
When someone is arrested
If a person is arrested, someone who is free must call an attorney as soon as possible. Memorize the phone number of an attorney or a person of your trust who is in the United States legally. If you are arrested, assert your right to make a phone call.
When talking to a lawyer
Talk to a lawyer or representative who is accredited before the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA). Request the following information from your legal advice provider: credentials, contract and how much you will pay, copies of the contract and every document filed in your case, and payment receipts signed and dated by the provider in your language of choice. Keep your original documents in a safe place at your home and give copies of the requested documents to your legal advisor.
Interacting with Authorities
You only have the duty to reply if you are asked your name. You have the right to remain silent and to not answer other questions. Anything you say will be used against you. Ask if you are free to leave. If the answer is yes, leave calmly. If you are not free to leave, ask to call your attorney.
What to Do
Assert your right to remain silent. Beyond stating your name, you’re not obliged to answer any other questions.
Ask if you are free to leave.
If yes, leave calmly.
If not, ask to call your attorney.
Request an attorney if detained or questioned.
Record encounter details if it is safe to do so.
Know your deportation risk.
Contact your consulate for assistance.
Understand your bail rights.
Express any health or safety concerns while in custody.
Request to inform your family of your location and status.
Ask for an interpreter if you’re not fluent in English.
Know your visa conditions and related restrictions.
Seek support from trusted community organizations.
Document changes in your immigration status.
Prepare in advance for potential future encounters.
What NOT to Do
Do not answer questions beyond stating your name.
Do not sign any documents without your lawyer’s review.
Do not consent to searches without a warrant.
Do not provide false information or documents to ICE or police.
Do not discuss your immigration status.
If you are detained by ICE:
Know your A Number: The A# (also known as “Alien number”) is is the number that I.C.E uses to identify you. It can be found on the bracelet given to you after being processed by I.C.E. Be prepared to share this number with your family.
What happens when someone is detained?
- You will be processed by I.C.E. in Memphis, TN.
- After processing, you will be transferred to the Western TN Detention Facility located in Mason, TN or directly to the Lasalle Detention Faciliy in Jena, LA.
- Once you are processed, you will be allowed to make a phone call. Hours will pass before you are processed and able to make a call. Be prepared to share your A# (also called an Alien number) with your family. You can find your A# on your bracelet attached after processing.
- Exercise your right to have an attorney. Any statements you make to I.C.E. will be used against you.
When a friend or loved one has been placed in detention, it is important to make an appointment with an experienced lawyer.
Download This Information
Downloadable Resources
Red Cards
Red Cards are available completely free of charge at Latino Memphis, 6041 Mt. Moriah Ext. Walk-ins are welcome during normal business hours. You can also call ahead to request a batch for your family, church, or community group.
Community Protection Strategies & Resources
Immigration Hub
The ongoing immigration crisis has created urgent challenges for families seeking safety, stability, and legal protection. Latino Memphis is committed to providing legal guidance, critical resources, and advocacy to help immigrants navigate these uncertain times. Whether you need to understand your rights, organize essential documents, or plan for your family’s future, we are here to support you every step of the way.
