A family member was picked up by immigration (ICE), or they fear it
Use when someone's family member was detained by immigration (ICE), or a family is afraid of it and wants to know their rights, find trusted legal help, and make a plan for the children.
These are the same steps our staff use when they help someone. "They" means the person who needs help: you, or someone you are helping. Go in order, and call ahead when you can.
You have the right to stay silent. You can say: "I want to remain silent. I want to talk to a lawyer."
You do not have to open the door unless they show a warrant signed by a judge. Ask them to slide it under the door. An ICE form signed only by an ICE officer is not a judge's warrant.
Do not sign anything without talking to a lawyer first.
Do not lie, do not show false papers, and do not run or fight.
Keep a lawyer's or legal group's phone number with you. Learn it by heart.
NM CAFe (NM Comunidades en Accion y de Fe)
Know-your-rights info and community organizing (immigrant families)
Choose a trusted adult to care for the children. Tell the school and child care who may pick them up.
In New Mexico a parent can sign a notarized power of attorney that lets a trusted adult care for a child for up to six months. Ask a legal group for help with the form.
Keep copies of key papers with someone you trust: birth certificates, passports, A-numbers, immigration papers, medicine lists and the lawyer's number.
At the Gospel MissionOur vital documents help can help get birth certificates and IDs. Ask staff.
You can say"Children born in the U.S. are citizens. That does not change if a parent is detained."
This guide is general information only, not medical, legal or other professional advice. Places and rules change, so please call before you go. In an emergency, call 911; in a mental health crisis, call or text 988. Disclaimer
Know a better way? Is something out of date?
If a number or place here is wrong, you know a better resource, or you know a better way to help, tell us. We automatically check reliable sources and update supported routine details. Unclear changes and safety guidance go to our staff for review.
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Questions, or want someone to walk through this with you? The Silver City Gospel Mission, 111 S. Texas St., Silver City, 575-388-5071, weekdays 9:00am-1:45pm. Everyone is welcome.