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What to Do If You Are Detained by ICE: Understanding Your Rights and Immigration Bond Hearings

On Behalf of | Feb 19, 2025 | Immigration

Being detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. It is crucial to understand your rights, the process of immigration bond hearings, and who qualifies for release under immigration laws, including the impact of the recently introduced Laken Riley Act.

Know Your Rights if Detained by ICE

  1. Remain Silent – You have the right to remain silent and should not answer questions about your immigration status or country of origin without speaking to an attorney.
  2. Do Not Sign Anything Without Legal Counsel – Signing documents without understanding them can result in agreeing to voluntary departure or waiving your rights to a hearing.
  3. Request to Speak with an Attorney – You have the right to legal representation, though the government will not provide one for you.
  4. Contact Your Family or an Attorney – Inform a trusted family member or attorney about your detention as soon as possible.
  5. Do Not Open Your Door Without a Warrant – ICE must have a valid judicial warrant signed by a judge to enter your home.

Immigration Bond Hearings: Who Qualifies?

If you are detained by ICE, you may be eligible for an immigration bond. A bond is a payment that allows a detained immigrant to be released while awaiting court proceedings.

Eligibility for an Immigration Bond:

  • You must not have serious criminal convictions or prior deportation orders.
  • You must demonstrate that you are not a flight risk and that you have strong ties to the community.
  • The immigration judge will assess your background and determine if bond is appropriate.

An immigration attorney can request a bond hearing on your behalf and present evidence to support your eligibility for release.

The Laken Riley Act and Its Impact

The Laken Riley Act is a proposed immigration law aimed at tightening regulations and increasing detention for undocumented immigrants with criminal records. This act may impact bond eligibility, making it more challenging for certain individuals to be released. If you or a loved one are detained under these new regulations, immediate legal assistance is essential.

How Our Firm Can Help

At our full-service immigration practice, we specialize in defending individuals facing ICE detention and removal proceedings. Attorney Shirley Zambrano has extensive experience handling immigration bond hearings and fighting for the rights of detained immigrants.

If you or a loved one has been detained by ICE and needs an immigration bond, call Attorney Shirley Zambrano at 770-769-5821 immediately for a consultation. Do not navigate this process alone—legal representation can make all the difference in securing your release and protecting your future.

Take Action Now

Time is critical when dealing with ICE detention. Contact us today to ensure you receive the best legal representation possible. We are here to stand by your side and fight for your rights every step of the way.