Know Your Rights
Whether you’re interacting with law enforcement, ICE, or simply going about your daily life, knowing your rights can help protect you and your loved ones.
No matter your immigration status, you have rights—and understanding them can make all the difference. From knowing what to do if ICE shows up at your door to understanding Nevada’s laws, this site is here to provide guidance, resources, and action steps to keep you informed and prepared.
Your Rights
If you are approached by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or law enforcement, it’s important to understand your rights:
- You have the right to remain silent and request an attorney.
- You have the right to due process and to have your case heard before a judge.
- You have the right to refuse a search of yourself, your home, or your belongings unless ICE presents an arrest warrant (not a removal order).
- You have the right to ask ICE to leave if they do not have a valid warrant.
Be Prepared
Taking precautions can help protect you and your family:
- Keep all important documents in a safe place where family members can access them.
- Have a plan in case you or a family member is detained by ICE, including arranging childcare if needed.
- Memorize important phone numbers.
- Consider consulting an immigration attorney.
If You Interact with ICE
- Do not volunteer any information.
- You do not need to provide your immigration status or place of birth.
- If ICE enters your home without permission or a valid warrant, clearly state that you do not consent to their search.
- Do not lie or present false or fraudulent documents, including fake IDs.
- Do not sign any documents without consulting an attorney. If you don’t understand it, don’t sign it.
- If you feel unsafe, document the event using your phone (video or audio).
- If ICE arrives at your home or workplace, ask to see a warrant before opening the door.
What to Do in Nevada
- Nevada has stop and identify laws, meaning police can stop you if they have reasonable suspicion of a crime and you must provide your name.
- You do not have to answer additional questions—assert your right to remain silent.
- Do not disclose your place of birth, nationality, or immigration status.
- Do not consent to searches of your person or property—say “I do not consent to a search.”
- If you are over 18, always carry your immigration papers. If you don’t have them, tell the officer you want to remain silent or consult a lawyer before answering questions.
- Customs officers can ask about your immigration status when entering or leaving the U.S.
- Lawful permanent residents: Only answer questions about your identity and residency status.
- Non-citizen visa holders: You may be denied entry into the U.S. if you refuse to answer questions.
Stay Informed, Stay Protected
Knowing your rights is the first step to protecting yourself and your family. If you or someone you know needs legal assistance, reach out to a qualified immigration attorney.
Explore the resources below for in-depth information on how to protect yourself and your family:
🔹ACLU – Know Your Rights: Immigrants' Rights – A comprehensive guide covering interactions with ICE, law enforcement, and border officials.
🔹Informed Immigrant – Resources for Immigrants – A hub of resources for undocumented and DACA recipients, including legal assistance and mental health support.