Your rights, explained: What to do if you encounter ICE or DHS agentsadvocate.com/politics/immigration/ice-immigration-rights-protestersJack Walker (26 Jan 2026)
Your rights as a U.S. citizen
As protests over deportation efforts continue nationwide, a growing number of U.S. citizens may encounter immigration officials face-to-face. PolitiFact, a nonprofit fact-checking website, has compiled a list of rights that protesters, bystanders, and observers have when interacting with immigration agents.
- You are protected from undue searches.
- Law enforcement cannot enter private homes freely.
- Agents need a reason to arrest or detain you.
- You can retain a lawyer when your rights are violated, but legal pathways may be limited.
Your rights as an undocumented immigrant
U.S. residents have protections under the Constitution regardless of their immigration status. Organizations like the American Civil Liberties Union and Immigration Equality provide informational and legal resources to ensure immigrants are aware of these protections. Key rights to keep in mind are as follows.
- You can stay quiet and avoid discussing your immigration status.
- You can request a lawyer.
- You can challenge a deportation order in court.
- If your case is already underway, you can be released on bond.
