Regardless of your immigration status, you have rights that are guaranteed under the U.S. Constitution. So if you encounter police or immigration, if you’re asked about your status, if you’re detained, if you’re threatened with deportation, make sure you know your rights inside and out.
What To Do If the Police Stop You
YOU MUST:
YOU DO NOT HAVE TO:
WHEN IN DOUBT, ALWAYS REMEMBER
What To Do If in County Jail
Do not resist and follow the officer’s instructions
Answer questions about your name, address, where you live and birthdate truthfully
Say you wish to remain silent regarding all other questions and ask for a lawyer*
Do not say anything else, sign anything or make any decisions without a lawyer – even if an immigration officer visits you in jail
You have the right to make a phone call and the police cannot listen in if you call a lawyer
Do NOT discuss your immigration status with anyone but your lawyer
Read all papers carefully – if you do not understand or cannot read the papers, ask for an interpreter
*If you cannot afford a lawyer, the government must provide one
Print our free #KnowMyRightsTX Power Card, be prepared for any police encounter.
Your #KnowMyRightsTX Power Card = power in your pocket. Print this card, keep it in your vehicle, and hand it to the officer if you are stopped by immigration or the police.
Safe Spaces in Your Community
While the impact of SB4 will reach far and wide across Texas – even in “Sanctuary Cities” – police and immigration are prohibited from enforcing the new laws in these safe spaces:
- Public or private primary or secondary schools
- Churches and other established places of worship
- Health care facilities and “SAFE-ready” facilities treating victims of sexual assault
Know Your Rights in safe spaces! If you or a family member is targeted with questions about immigration status in any of these locations, contact an attorney for help.