If you or your loved ones are worried about immigration enforcement, preparing now can help protect you and your family. This guide explains the steps you can take to stay safe, protect your rights, and make sure your family is cared for in case of an emergency.
Keep your important documents safe
Keep all critical identification, immigration forms, and personal documents in a safe and accessible location. Make copies and share them with a trusted person. These documents can make a difference if you are detained and need legal assistance.
Store original identification, including passports, driver’s licenses, and state IDs, along with any immigration papers such as applications, notices, or letters from immigration authorities. If you have court records related to criminal or immigration cases, keep them safe as well. Birth certificates, marriage or divorce certificates, Social Security cards, and school and medical records for children should also be stored securely. Having these documents readily available can help ensure swift legal support and smooth transitions in case of an emergency.
Talk to a lawyer now
Even if you are not currently facing legal issues, speaking with an immigration lawyer can help you understand your rights and prepare for the future, which could include adjusting your status. Many nonprofit organizations offer free legal help but be cautious of scammers who charge high fees and make false promises. If you have plans to travel outside of the country, speak to a lawyer beforehand about the risks you could face when interacting with ICE when you try to reenter.
Also Read: Fly With REAL ID: What Migrants Need To Know
If you decide to hire a lawyer, ensure they are licensed. Always have a written contract in a language you understand, and never permanently hand over your original documents. If you need to make payments, request receipts and use checks or money orders instead of cash. Before making significant legal decisions, getting a second opinion can provide added security. Being informed about your rights before a crisis occurs can help protect you from exploitation and ensure you make the best decisions for your future.
If you are detained, you should ask to immediately speak to a lawyer.
Plan for medical needs
Carry with you a written record of essential medical information. This should include your doctor’s contact information, a list of any medications you take and their dosages, and details of any known allergies or chronic conditions.
If you trust someone to access your medical records, consider signing a HIPAA form to allow doctors to share information with them. This can be helpful if you are detained and need medical care but cannot communicate your needs.
Make a childcare plan
If you have children, it’s critical to have a plan in place in case you cannot care for them. Choose a trusted person who can step in if necessary. Discuss the plan with them in advance to make sure they agree. Share this alternative emergency contact with your child’s school.
Make sure your designated caregiver knows your child’s school name, address, and contact information. They should also be aware of any medical conditions, medications, or allergies your child has. Give this person emergency contact information for other trusted relatives as well.
Store your child’s birth certificate, school records, and medical papers in a safe place your emergency caretaker can access.
To provide legal authority for someone to care for your child, you may want to explore legal options. A special power of attorney gives a trusted person temporary authority to care for your child and can be canceled anytime. Guardianship is a more formal legal arrangement, usually handled in Family Court, that allows someone to make important decisions on your child’s behalf. This option can be more complicated to undo, so consult a legal expert before proceeding.
Prepare for financial needs
If you are detained, someone you trust may need to manage your finances to keep up with bills and necessary expenses. A power of attorney for financial matters allows a trusted person to access your bank account, pick up your paycheck, pay bills, and use your money for essential expenses like rent or legal fees. Consulting a lawyer or financial expert can help you set this up properly.
Keep important information with you
At all times, carry a small card or piece of paper with important information written down. Include the names and phone numbers of trusted family or friends, the contact details of any lawyer who has agreed to help you, and the contact information for your child’s school if you have children. Write down your doctor’s name and any necessary medical details.
Also Read: Pro-Bono Lawyers And Free Legal Services in New York Immigration Courts
Do not rely only on your phone, as you may not always have access to it. Keeping this information written down ensures you can reach the people who can help you in an emergency.
Taking these proactive steps can help protect you and your loved ones during uncertain times. Being prepared ensures you have the necessary resources to assert your rights, secure your family’s well-being, and navigate emergencies more confidently.
Also Read: ICE At The Door? How Noncitizens Should Talk to Immigration Officers
