Immigration -- Know Your Rights
-
-
• The links on this page are available in multiple languages •
If you are an immigrant or refugee who is not a legal citizen of the United States you may be at increased risk of detention and deportation after
January 20, 2025. You should know your rights and be prepared to exercise those rights if you are approached by law enforcement or ICE.
At the present time, individuals who are believed to be at most risk are:
• Persons with prior deportation or removal orders
• Persons with criminal convictions
• Persons who may have had previous contact with ICE and are already known by ICE
• Undocumented individuals collaterally picked up during raids or target ICE enforcement
> A video explaining your rights is available in multiple languages here.
> A printed handout explaining your rights is available here.
If you are at risk of detention and deportation, you should have a plan to provide for your loved ones.
> Information about making a family safety plan is available here.
You should take steps to protect your children and your property by completing these legal forms which designate a person of your choice to care for your children and your property if you are detained or deported:
> Power of Attorney for Children
> Power of Attorney for Personal Property
(NOTE: these forms must be signed in the presence of a Notary Public available at your bank, credit union, Waterloo Public Library, the County Auditor’s office and
most lawyers' offices. Proof of identity is required to have a document notarized.)
You should make sure that all of your legal documents, papers, and contact information are stored in a safe place where a family member can find them if you are detained.
If you have a lawyer, memorize their phone number or write it on a piece of paper in case your cell phone is confiscated.
If you are at risk of detention and deportation, your safest place is your home. You may deny entrance to anyone who does not have an arrest warrant, signed by a judge, and specifically naming you.
You have the right to remain silent if you are questioned by law enforcement or ICE when a lawyer is not present.
> You can copy and print a statement explaining your silence here.
If you have questions about protecting yourself and your family you should contact an attorney who practices immigration law, Catholic Charities Immigration Services, or an immigrant advocacy organization such as Cedar Valley Advocates for Immigrant and Refugee Rights.> The local Catholic Charities office is located at 3835 W. 9th Street in Waterloo. Phone: 319-340-4304.
> A list of immigration lawyers and immigrant advocacy organizations in Iowa is available here.NOTICEThe information provided here and in the links on this page is informational.
It is not intended as legal advice and is not a substitute for legal advice of your own counsel.[Last Update: 01.12.25]
-