Know Your Rights
The U.S. Constitution protects you regardless of your immigration status. Knowing your rights is your first line of defense.
Knowledge Is Your Shield
When you know what your rights are, fear loses its power. You do not need to be a lawyer. You do not need to speak perfect English. You just need to know that the Constitution protects you — and how to exercise that protection.
"Knowing your rights can prevent an arrest, preserve defenses in a deportation case, and help you identify when your rights are being violated."
— Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC), 2026
Fear Is the Most Powerful Tool Used Against You
Many people do not exercise their rights because they do not know they have them. Abusive employers, scammers, and even some officials count on your silence and your fear. But the law is on your side — if you know how to use it.
An ICE administrative warrant is NOT a judicial warrant — it does not give them the right to enter your home
The 100-mile border zone covers approximately 2/3 of the U.S. population (ACLU)
Threatening to call ICE for complaining about work conditions is illegal retaliation (NLRB)
Showing your consular ID to ICE can give them the proof they need to deport you
It is not your fault that nobody taught you this. But now you know.
Seven Rights You Must Know
Each of these rights is backed by the U.S. Constitution and federal law. Knowing them can protect you and your family.
Phrases That Can Protect You
Memorize these phrases. Practice them with your family. In a moment of stress, the right words are your best defense.
"I am exercising my right to remain silent."
Use when asked about your immigration status
"I do not consent to a search."
Use when they want to search your home, car, or belongings
"I want to speak to a lawyer."
Use before signing anything or answering questions
"Am I free to go?"
Use to determine if you are being detained
"Please show me a judicial warrant signed by a judge."
Use when ICE is at your door
Six Steps to Protect Your Family
Preparation eliminates panic. Take these steps today so your family is ready tomorrow.
Download and print your Proximo Paso Know Your Rights Card — carry it in your wallet at all times. Show it to any officer instead of speaking.
Download Know Your Rights Card (PDF)Memorize this phrase: 'I am exercising my right to remain silent. I want to speak to a lawyer.'
Fill out and share the Emergency Family Contact Sheet with your trusted contact — make sure they have copies of key documents and know the plan for your children.
Download Emergency Family Contact Sheet (PDF)Save the number of a local immigration legal aid organization in your phone.
Review the Detention Emergency Action Plan with your family — know exactly what to do if someone is detained, who to call, and how to protect your rights.
Download Detention Emergency Action Plan (PDF)Connect with Proximo Paso for bilingual guidance and community support.
Judicial Warrant vs. ICE Warrant
Know the difference — it can protect your home
Judicial Warrant
- ✓Signed by a federal or state judge
- ✓Lists a specific address
- ✓Issued by a court
- ✓DOES give them the right to enter
ICE Warrant (Administrative)
- ✗Signed by an ICE officer, NOT a judge
- ✗Form I-200 or I-205
- ✗Issued by ICE, not a court
- ✗Does NOT give them the right to enter your home
Download. Print. Protect Yourself.
These three documents are your most important tools. Download them now, print them, and share them with your family.
Your Rights, Your Power
The information in this guide is not legal advice. It is education. For your specific situation, always consult with an immigration attorney. But remember: you have rights, and nobody can take them away.
Proximo Paso — Avanzando Contigo
Sources: ACLU, ILRC (Jan 2026), EEOC, NLRB, Plyler v. Doe 457 U.S. 202 (1982), EMTALA. This educational content is not legal advice.