A Quick Guide from The Guardian Law Group, PLLC

Across the country, immigration enforcement activity has increased. If you or a loved one are approached by immigration agents, what you do in the first few minutes matters. Fear and confusion often lead people to unknowingly give up rights the Constitution protects—regardless of immigration status.

At The Guardian Law Group, PLLC, we defend immigrants in removal proceedings and detention. This guide is designed to quickly educate immigrants on their constitutional rights and civil liberties when facing enforcement by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Your Shield. Our Fight. Your Justice.

First and Most Important: You Have Rights Even If You Are Not a U.S. Citizen

Under the U.S. Constitution, everyone in the United States citizens and non-citizens alike has fundamental protections, including:

• The right to remain silent
• The right to refuse consent to a search
• The right to speak with a lawyer
• The right to due process

ICE agents may not always explain these rights. You must assert them clearly and calmly.

If ICE Approaches You in Public

If ICE stops you on the street, at work, or in a public place:

You Have the Right to Remain Silent

You do not have to answer questions about:

• where you were born
• your immigration status
• how you entered the U.S.

You may say:

“I choose to remain silent.”

Ask If You Are Free to Leave

If the agent says yes, walk away calmly.
If the agent says no, you are being detained do not resist.

Do Not Provide False Information

You may remain silent, but do not lie or present false documents.

If ICE Comes to Your Home

ICE cannot enter your home without permission or a valid judicial warrant.

Do Not Open the Door

You may speak through the door.

Ask to See a Warrant

A valid warrant must be:

• signed by a judge (not ICE or DHS)
• list the correct name and address

You may say:

“I do not consent to entry. Please slide the warrant under the door.”

Administrative ICE warrants are not enough to enter your home without consent.

If You Are Arrested or Detained

If ICE takes you into custody:

You Have the Right to a Lawyer

You may say:

“I want to speak to a lawyer.”

ICE does not provide free attorneys but you have the right to consult one before answering questions.

You Have the Right to Remain Silent

Do not discuss your case, your past, or your immigration history without counsel.

Do Not Sign Anything You Don’t Understand

ICE may present documents asking you to:

• waive rights
• accept removal
• give up a hearing

You can say:

“I will not sign anything without speaking to a lawyer.”

Immigration Court and Due Process

Immigration cases are heard in courts run by the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR).

Key points to know:

• You are entitled to a hearing before an immigration judge
• You may have defenses to removal
• Missing court can result in automatic deportation orders
• You are not given a court-appointed attorney but representation matters

Many people who are detained still qualify for bond or relief. Silence and delay often eliminate options.

Common ICE Tactics to Be Aware Of

ICE agents may:

• use intimidation or urgency
• say “this will be easier if you cooperate”
• ask questions casually to get admissions
• pressure you to sign paperwork quickly

These tactics are legal but you are not required to help them build a case against you.

What You Should Do Now to Protect Yourself and Your Family

Prepare a Plan

• Know who will care for children
• Keep important documents accessible
• Share your attorney’s contact info with family

Carry a “Know Your Rights” Card

A simple card stating you choose to remain silent and want a lawyer can be powerful.

Avoid Notarios and Non-Lawyers

Only licensed attorneys or DOJ-accredited representatives may give immigration legal advice.

The Guardian Law Group’s Approach to Immigration Defense

At The Guardian Law Group, PLLC, we focus on defending constitutional rights when enforcement escalates. Our work includes:

• deportation defense
• bond hearings and detention challenges
• motions to reopen and stay removal
• court-based immigration litigation

We step in when fear threatens to override rights and we stand between our clients and a system that often moves faster than fairness.

Your Shield. Our Fight. Your Justice.

Final Takeaway: Silence Is Protection. Knowledge Is Power.

You do not have to argue.
You do not have to explain.
You do not have to sign.

You do have the right to remain silent and seek legal help.

If enforcement activity increases, knowing and asserting your rights can protect your freedom, your family, and your future.