What to Do If ICE or the Police Serve You with an Arrest Warrant

Facing ICE agents or police is a stressful and terrifying experience. Many immigrant families live with the constant fear that a simple knock on the door or a traffic stop could change their lives forever. If you ever find yourself in this situation, remember that You are not alone and you have rights.

It's normal to feel overwhelmed at a time like this, but staying calm and informed can make all the difference. Having a plan and knowing what to do and what not to do can help you protect yourself and your family.

Not all orders are equal: what's the difference?

If an ICE agent or police officer says they have a warrant for you, the first thing you should know is Not all orders give them the authority they claim to have. There are two main types:

Court Orders

Issued and signed by a judge.

- They give the police the legal right to arrest or search a property.

Must include your correct name and address to be valid.

ICE Administrative Orders

Issued by immigration agents, not by judges.

• No They give ICE the legal right to enter your home without your permission.

You is not legally obligated to comply with them.

Many people comply with Administrative orders why do they believe ICE has the right to arrest them or enter their homes. However, Only a court order signed by a judge gives them that power..

If ICE says they have a warrant, you has the right to ask to see it before taking any action.

If ICE or Police Detain You in a Public Place

If you are stopped on the street or in a public place, you may feel confused and scared, but remember: has rights.

• You are not required to answer questions about your immigration status. If they ask, just say: “I choose to remain silent and I want to speak with my attorney.”

• Don't run. Running away can make the situation worse.

• You can ask if she is free to leave. If the answer is yes, walk calmly. If the answer is no, ask why you are being stopped.

• Do not submit false documents. It is better to remain silent than to present a false identification.

It's common to feel pressured to answer questions, but remember: Remaining silent is your right,.

If ICE or the Police Come to Your House

Your home is your sanctuary. ICE agents or police showing up at your door without warning is terrifying, but You do not have to open the door unless certain conditions are met..

• Do not open the door. No matter how many times they knock or demand to enter, remain inside.

• Ask them to slide the order under the door or show it through a window.

• Check if it is signed by a judge. An administrative order from ICE No gives them the right to enter.

• Verify the details. A valid order must have his/her exact name and address. If the information is incorrect, It is not valid.

• If the order is valid, only the person named in the order must leave. Close the door behind you and don't leave it open.

If you don't have a warrant, You are not obligated to let them in or answer questions..

If at any point you feel pressured or scared, remember: You have the right to remain silent and to request to speak with a lawyer..

How to Prepare for These Situations

Thinking about these situations isn

• Memorize an immigration lawyer's number. If they take away his phone, he should know who to call.

• Explain to your family what to do. Even children should know not to open the door and who to contact in case of an emergency.

• Store important documents in a safe place. Have copies of identification, immigration documents, birth certificates, and emergency contacts.

• Carry a “Know Your Rights” card with you. It can be helpful if you feel too nervous to speak.

To be prepared does not mean expecting the worst, but to have the tools to handle any situation with confidence.

You are not alone

At DeLaTorre Law, We know how difficult and distressing this situation can be. We have seen the fear that many immigrant families face every day, and we understand how important it is to have support, information, and a plan of action.

If you have questions about your immigration status, an order against you, or how best to protect yourself, We are here to help you.

📍 DeLaTorre Law

5835 Callaghan Rd, Ste 300, San Antonio, TX 78228

📞 Telephone: (210) 640-9788

📧 Email: mayrise@mdelatorrelaw.com

🌐 Website mdelatorrelaw.com

Your future is important. Your rights are important. Let's make sure we protect them.