Know Your Rights

Know Your Rights

When Facing Immigration Enforcement in Maryland

Immigrants have helped build this country from day one. Families have come to the United States fleeing war, persecution, and economic hardship in search of safety and opportunity. That story is part of Maryland’s story.

But our immigration system is deeply flawed. Too often, policies treat migrants and refugees like criminals instead of human beings. Under President Donald Trump, those harmful approaches have intensified.

Let me be clear: due process is not optional in America. It is a constitutional right. No matter your immigration status, you have rights while you are physically present in the United States.

It is important to know those rights and how to assert them at home, at work, at school, or in your community. Below is organized, consolidated information to help you and your family stay informed and prepared.

How Congressman Ivey’s Office Can Help 

If you are a resident of Maryland’s Fourth Congressional District and have an open immigration case, my office may be able to assist by submitting inquiries to federal agencies regarding:

  • Immigrant visa applications
  • Non-immigrant visa applications
  • Asylum cases
  • Employment authorization (EAD)
  • DACA and TPS cases
  • Citizenship and naturalization
  • Oath ceremonies

For inquiries like the above please fill out my Privacy Release Form. Please make sure to include the most recent receipt number and A-number.

If you or a loved one:

  • Has been detained by ICE in Maryland
  • Has an open order of removal

Please contact my office at (240) 906-6262.

You must complete the DHS Privacy Release Form [link below] before we can inquire about your case. This form authorizes the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to share information with our office.

privacy-auth-form-ice-only-2022-1.pdf  (637.35 KB)

Legal Disclaimer

This page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration law changes frequently. If you need legal advice, please consult a licensed immigration attorney.

Information is provided as is, without warranty of accuracy or completeness. If you identify an error or discrepancy, please contact our office so we can review and update the information.

If You Are Stopped by ICE or Police

1. Stay Calm
  • Do not run away. Running can be used against you in court.
  • Keep your hands visible and remain calm.
2. 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 United States
  • If you choose to remain silent, say clearly:
    “I am exercising my right to remain silent.”
3. You Have the Right to an Attorney
  • Say: “I want to speak to a lawyer.”
  • Do not sign anything before speaking to a lawyer.
  • If detained, you have the right to consult with an attorney, but the government is not required to provide one.
  • You can request a list of free or low-cost legal providers.

If ICE Comes to Your Home

You Do Not Have to Open the Door Without a Valid Judicial Warrant
  • ICE must have a warrant signed by a judge with your correct name and/or address.
  • You do not have to open the door unless they show a valid judicial warrant.
  • Ask them to slide the warrant under the door or hold it up to a window.
  • A removal/deportation warrant (Form I-205) is not the same as a judicial warrant and may not authorize entry into your home without consent or urgent circumstances.

Note: ICE’s policies on entry are being challenged in court. If in doubt, do not open the door and speak to a lawyer.

If You Are Arrested or Facing Deportation

  • You generally have the right to a hearing before an immigration judge unless you have signed away that right or accepted voluntary departure.
  • If you are told you cannot see a judge, contact a lawyer immediately.
  • If you fear persecution or torture in your home country, tell the officer and speak to an attorney immediately.
  • Do not sign any document you do not fully understand.

Carrying Documents

  • If you are over 18 and have valid immigration documents, carry them with you.
  • If asked for immigration papers and you have them, you may need to show them.
  • Do not carry false documents.
  • Do not carry documents from another country (such as a foreign passport) unless legally required.
  • If an officer asks to search you or your belongings, you can say:
    “I do not consent to a search.”

Be Prepared

  • Create a family emergency plan.
  • Memorize at least one emergency phone number.
  • Identify a trusted immigration attorney in advance.
  • Keep important documents in a safe place.
  • Carry a Know Your Rights card.

Maryland Immigration Community and Legal Resources

If you need legal assistance, some resources you may wish to consider contacting:

You may also review the U.S. Department of Justice’s list of pro bono immigration legal providers.

Additional Helpful Links

 

This Community Resources List is intended to provide an informative resource of local organizations that may provide non-federal assistance and/or support to constituents. The inclusion of any organization on this list does not constitute or imply the official sanction or endorsement of Congressman Glenn Ivey or the U.S. House of Representatives of such organization and/or the services provided.

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Immigration

Office Locations

Washington DC Office
1610 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, DC  20515
Phone: (202) 225-8699
Landover District Office
4301 Garden City Drive
Landover , MD  20785
Phone: (240) 906-6262