ICE raids can happen without warning and often leave families feeling scared and helpless—especially when a loved one is taken. Knowing what to do in those first few hours is critical to protecting their rights and increasing their chances of staying in the United States. In this blog, we explain step-by-step what you should do if your family member is detained during an ICE raid.
1. Stay Calm and Gather Key Information
The first thing is to stay calm. Don’t panic. Instead, try to collect as much information as possible, including:
- The full name of the person detained.
- Their A-Number (Alien Registration Number), if available.
- Where they were detained and—if possible—what detention center they were taken to.
This information will help you locate your loved one and support their attorney in taking quick action.
2. Locate Your Detained Family Member
ICE has an online “Detainee Locator Tool” that allows you to search for a person in custody. You’ll need either their full name and date of birth or their A-Number. You can also call the local ICE office or the suspected detention facility directly.
It may take hours or even days for the system to update. Don’t lose hope—keep checking.
3. Do Not Let Them Sign Anything Without a Lawyer
One of the most common and dangerous mistakes is signing documents without legal guidance. Many detainees, out of fear or confusion, unknowingly sign voluntary departure papers that result in immediate deportation. Make sure your loved one:
- Does not sign anything without first consulting an immigration attorney.
- Exercises their right to make a phone call to contact family or a lawyer.
4. Contact an Immigration Attorney Immediately
An experienced immigration attorney can:
- Request a hearing before an immigration judge.
- Fight for the possibility of bond.
- Explore legal defenses such as asylum, cancellation of removal, or family petitions.
At J. Molina Law Firm, we fight for immigrants’ rights and guide families through these emergencies with compassion and legal expertise.
5. Have a Family Emergency Plan Ready
If you or other family members are undocumented, having a plan in place can make a huge difference in case of an ICE raid:
- Appoint a trusted person to care for your children if needed.
- Keep copies of your important documents in a safe place.
- Make sure you have your immigration attorney’s contact information handy.
You Are Not Alone — We Are Here to Help
ICE raids can be terrifying, but taking the right steps quickly and getting legal help can change the outcome. If your loved one has been detained in an ICE raid, don’t go through this alone. At J. Molina Law Firm, we are here to protect your rights and help keep your family together.
Contact us today for a confidential consultation. Your family’s future is worth defending.
