Last month, ICE agents showed up at the Rock County Courthouse.
Whether you support these unprecedented actions by federal immigration authorities or not, one thing everyone can agree on is that ICE doesn’t get to bend the law just because they’re wearing federal badges. Every person in this country is entitled to due process under our Constitution, regardless of where they were born or what their circumstances are today.
Here are some important legal points to know if ICE shows up looking for someone you love tomorrow.
Say Nothing. You Don’t Owe Them a Word.
You have a constitutional right to remain silent. Use it. You don’t have to tell ICE where you’re from. You don’t have to answer how you got here.
Silence isn’t weakness. It’s your right. As with any law enforcement agency, you are protected under the Constitution.
Tell them: “I’m using my right to remain silent. I want a lawyer.” Then stop talking.
ICE agents will use anything you say against you. They are trained on how to get you to drop your guard and say things you may regret. Let your silence speak for you.
A Piece of Paper Isn’t Enough.
ICE may use official-looking paperwork to put pressure on people. They know what is official and what isn’t, and they are counting on people not knowing – or not bothering to check.
The first step for anyone to take when law enforcement is at your door, is to ask them to present a warrant. Federal and state agents cannot enter your home to arrest or to search without a warrant signed by a judge.
Do not open the door or crack a window when you ask for the warrant. Tell them to slide it under the door or hold it up so you can see it. The rule you should follow is that if you don’t see a judicial signature on a warrant, then ICE can’t enter.
If you are taken into custody, do not sign anything. Wait for a lawyer to advise you. Remain silent.
Signing Documents Can End Everything. Don’t.
Signing a document can mean you’re admitting to things that aren’t true. If you are feeling pressured to sign a document, that’s usually an indication that you should review the document with a lawyer before signing.
The rule to remember here is that you are never required to sign anything without legal counsel. If anyone pressures you or threatens you, document this and tell a lawyer.
Protecting People Is Not a Political Statement.
Standing up for our right to due process isn’t about politics. It’s about basic decency, lawful process, and constitutional order. Be respectful, but be firm. Stand up for our Constitutional rights. We all deserve to be treated fairly under the law.
Call a Lawyer the Second ICE Shows Up.
The minute someone you know is approached by ICE, time is of the essence.
Contact a lawyer at your earliest opportunity.
We fight to protect people’s rights in the courtroom each and every day. If you have questions about your legal situation or have been accused of a crime, call Dillon Grube Law at 608-373-5560.
Dillon Grube
