What to do if ICE arrests you
- Aynur Baghirzade
- Jul 30
- 5 min read
Updated: Sep 3
An arrest by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) can be frightening, but knowing your rights and next steps is critical. Whether agents approach you at home, work, or on the street, staying calm and informed may make the difference. This guide explains what to do immediately, your legal rights, how to seek counsel, and how a firm like Accura Immigration Law can help you through the process.
An ICE arrest can be traumatic, but knowing your rights helps you stay protected. This guide outlines what to do if Immigration and Customs Enforcement detains you. Learn how to respond during encounters, assert your legal rights, and secure an immigration attorney. Discover the steps to follow in detention, your bond options, and ways to build a defense. Accura Immigration Firm provides expert legal support from arrest to court proceedings. With fast action and strong representation, you can fight removal and seek relief through asylum, adjustment of status, or cancellation of removal. Be informed, stay calm, and know your options.
1. Stay Calm and Know Your Rights if ICE arrests you
a. Remain Silent and Controlled
You have the constitutional right to remain silent. Do not answer questions about your immigration status, place of birth, or how you entered the U.S. Politely say, "I am using my right to remain silent," and refrain from offering any other information.
b. Ask if You’re Free to Leave
If ICE approaches you outside of detention, ask, “Am I free to leave?” If the answer is yes, calmly walk away.
c. Do Not Consent to Searches
ICE cannot search your home or vehicle without a judicial warrant. If they claim to have a warrant, ask to see it. Do not open your door unless they show a signed warrant by a judge. Administrative warrants (ICE warrants) are not enough.
d. Document the Encounter
If safe, record the interaction discreetly. Make notes afterward, including badge numbers, locations, and any statements or actions taken by agents.
2. During & After Arrest
a. Statement of Rights
Upon arrest, ICE should inform you of your rights, including the right to contact a lawyer and your consulate. These rights must be exercised as soon as possible.
b. Access to Legal Counsel
You have the right to speak with an attorney. Although the government will not provide one, you can request a list of free or low-cost immigration attorneys.
c. Reach Out to Family or Trusted Contacts
Ask to contact loved ones. Give them your A-number (alien registration number). This eight- or nine-digit number helps locate you in the ICE system.
d. Bond Possibilities
Depending on your case, you may be eligible for a bond hearing before an immigration judge. ICE may detain individuals they consider a flight risk or public safety threat.
3. What Happens During Detention
a. Intake at ICE Facility
You’ll go through processing, be fingerprinted, and given an A-number. Officials will also conduct an initial interview and possibly ask about your immigration history.
b. Know Your Rights in Detention
You are entitled to food, medical care, access to the law library, and the right to file grievances. If you don't speak English, you also have the right to an interpreter.
c. Locating Family & Legal Representation
Once detained, family members can use your A-number to find your location through the ICE Detainee Locator system. You’re allowed legal mail and in-person attorney visits.
4. Legal Options & Responses
a. Bond Hearing
If you are eligible for bond, your attorney can request a hearing. The judge will consider your ties to the U.S., immigration history, and criminal background before deciding on bond.
b. Master Calendar Hearing
This is your first appearance in immigration court. The judge will ask how you plead to the charges and whether you wish to apply for immigration relief.
c. Relief Options
You may be eligible for various forms of relief, such as:
Asylum
Cancellation of Removal
Adjustment of Status
U or T Visas
Withholding of RemovalEach option depends on your specific circumstances and requires strong legal representation.
5. Role of Legal Counsel – How Accura Immigration Firm Can Help
a. Immediate Intake & Case Review
ICE arrests offers rapid intake services and immediate review of ICE-related arrests. The firm helps determine eligibility for bond and the strongest defense approach.
b. Bond and Release Advocacy
The firm helps prepare bond packages, including community support letters, proof of ties to the U.S., and family responsibilities. They represent you during bond hearings.
c. Representation in Court
Accura's attorneys handle master hearings, individual hearings, and all court appearances. They prepare forms, evidence, affidavits, and personal declarations to strengthen your case.
d. Appeals & Motions
If your application is denied, Accura assists in filing an appeal or a motion to reopen or reconsider the case. These steps can prevent removal while the appeal is reviewed.
e. Support for Families
The firm works with families to locate detainees, communicate with ICE, and provide emotional and legal guidance during detention.
6. Practical Planning Tips if You’re at Risk
Memorize contact information for attorneys, family, and community support groups.
Prepare a family plan for child care, finances, and emergency medical decisions.
Carry a Know Your Rights card, available in multiple languages, which you can hand to officers instead of speaking.
Avoid carrying false documents or telling lies to immigration authorities.
Keep documents like birth certificates, marriage licenses, and employment letters in a safe place your family can access.
Never sign anything without understanding it. Some forms authorize deportation or waive your right to a hearing.
7. Community Resources & Rights Advocacy
Many immigrant advocacy groups provide free Know Your Rights materials, legal help, and emergency response planning. Always stay connected to local immigrant networks, community organizers, or faith-based groups that support detained families. They can help locate you, find legal assistance, and raise funds for bond.
8. Summary Table of Actions
Final Thoughts
An ICE arrest is distressing, but preparation and understanding your rights can greatly reduce harm. Avoid panic. Don’t provide false information. Remain silent unless advised otherwise by a lawyer. Exercise your rights and demand access to legal counsel.
Legal professionals—like those at Accura Immigration Firm—help clients from the moment of arrest. Whether it’s posting bond, preparing a relief application, or fighting deportation, skilled legal help matters. Their team offers personalized service, swift action, and in-depth immigration knowledge to help protect you and your future.
If you or a loved one has been detained by ICE, don’t wait. Reach out to an experienced immigration attorney right away and take the first step toward your defense and freedom.
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