Emergency Safety Plan Guide for Undocumented Immigrants

Emergency Safety Plan: Guide for Undocumented Immigrants

By Davis & Associates | March 4, 2025

Living as an undocumented immigrant in Texas comes with uncertainty–especially with the recent administration changes. You never know when an encounter with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) could happen. Do you know what to do? Do your loved ones know how to respond? Having a plan in place can help protect you, your family, and your future.

  1. Know Your Rights

No matter your immigration status, you have rights in the United States. If you are stopped by ICE or the police, knowing these rights can help protect you and prevent actions that may lead to deportation.

You Have the Right to Remain Silent

  • You do not have to answer questions about where you were born, your immigration status, or how you entered the country.
  • Simply say: “I am exercising my right to remain silent.”
  • Do not lie or provide false documents—this can be used against you.

You Have the Right to Speak with a Lawyer

  • The government will not provide you with a lawyer, but you have the right to hire one.
  • If you are detained, ask to call your lawyer immediately.
  • Do not discuss your case with ICE agents or sign anything before speaking with an attorney.

You Have the Right to Refuse Entry to Your Home

  • Do not open the door if ICE comes to your home.
  • Ask if they have a court order signed by a judge. A warrant signed by ICE is NOT enough.
  • If they do not have a valid court order, you can refuse entry and tell them through the door: “I do not consent to entry.”

You Have the Right to Refuse to Sign Documents

  • ICE may pressure you to sign voluntary departure papers, which can force you to leave the U.S. without a hearing.
  • Do not sign anything without talking to a lawyer first.
  • If you don’t understand a document, ask for a translation or an interpreter.

Even in a stressful situation, staying calm and knowing your rights can help you protect yourself. If ICE or law enforcement stops you, exercise these rights to avoid making mistakes that could lead to deportation.

  1. Have a Plan for an ICE Raid

An ICE raid can happen without warning, and the way you respond can make a big difference. If ICE agents show up at your home or workplace, they may try to intimidate you or pressure you into making mistakes. It’s important to be prepared ahead of time to ensure you and your loved ones stay safe and protect your rights.

At Home:

  • Stay Calm and Do Not Panic: If ICE is at your door, take a deep breath and stay in control. Do not run, resist, or argue. Panicking can make the situation worse.
  • Ask for Identification: Before responding, ask the agents to identify themselves and state their purpose. They must show official credentials. If they claim to have a warrant, ask them to slide it under the door or show it through a window. Do not open the door unless the warrant is signed by a judge.
  • Record Everything: If it is safe to do so, take notes, record video, or have a family member document what is happening. This can help your lawyer build your case later.
  • Have a Contact List Ready: Keep important phone numbers on hand, including those of trusted family members and your immigration lawyer. Share this list with someone you trust.

At Work:

  • Know Your Employer’s Policy: Some workplaces have plans in place for ICE raids. Talk to your employer to understand your rights at work.
  • Stay Silent: Do not share your immigration status, answer questions, or sign any documents.
  • Find a Safe Space: If ICE agents enter your workplace, stay where you are and do not voluntarily approach them. If possible, go to a safe area where you can contact a lawyer or a trusted colleague.
  • Alert a Trusted Person: If ICE is at your workplace, discreetly notify a coworker, supervisor, or legal contact who can document what is happening and provide support.

  1. Prepare Important Documents

If you are an undocumented immigrant in Texas, having quick access to important documents can make a huge difference when you are approached by ICE. Whether you need to prove your identity, seek legal help, or make arrangements for your family, being organized can save valuable time.

Make copies of these essential documents:

  • Your Passport or ID
  • Birth Certificates (for you and your children)
  • Marriage Certificates (If applicable) 
  • Medical Records
  • Legal Documents (immigration paperwork, work permits, and your lawyer’s contact information.)

Keep Your Documents Safe

Store originals in a secure, easily accessible place and make extra copies. Consider:

  • Giving a trusted family member or friend a copy in case of emergencies.
  • Storing digital copies in a password-protected cloud storage for quick access.
  • Keeping a small emergency folder with the most critical documents.

  1. Create a Family Preparedness Plan

For undocumented immigrants in Texas, the possibility of detention can leave you feeling uneasy, but having a family preparedness plan can provide security and peace of mind. If you are detained, your family should know exactly what to do.

Key Steps for a Strong Family Preparedness Plan:

  • Decide Who Will Care for Your Children: Choose a trusted family member or friend who can step in if you are detained. Make sure they know your child’s routine, school schedule, and medical needs.
  • Assign Power of Attorney: Undocumented immigrants in Texas can legally designate a guardian to make decisions for their children. This ensures that someone you trust can handle school, medical, and financial matters in your absence.
  • Keep Emergency Contacts Ready: Make a list of phone numbers for close family, friends, and your immigration lawyer. Teach children and family members who to call first in an emergency.
  • Have Quick Access to Money: Set aside emergency funds in cash or a secure account. Make sure a trusted family member knows how to access financial resources if needed.

Taking action now can make all the difference—your family’s safety and stability depend on it.

  1. Find Legal Help Before You Need It

Waiting until an emergency to find a lawyer can be risky. When facing detention or deportation, every second counts, and having a legal expert already on your side will give you and your family the best chance of staying in the U.S.

Steps to Take Now:

  • Find an Immigration Lawyer: Choose an experienced immigration attorney in Texas who specializes in immigration law and understands the unique challenges undocumented immigrants face.
  • Know Your Legal Options: A lawyer can help you explore available pathways to legal status or relief from deportation.
  • Keep Legal Papers Ready: If you have a pending case, keep all immigration documents, receipts, and correspondence organized and accessible.

The U.S. immigration system is complex, and undocumented immigrants who proactively seek legal help are in a much stronger position than those who wait until an emergency. Don’t wait until it’s too late—secure a trusted legal advocate now to protect your future.

  1. Stay Informed About Immigration Policies

Immigration laws are constantly changing, and undocumented immigrants in Texas need to stay updated to protect their rights. What was true last year may no longer apply today, so keeping track of the latest policies can help you make informed decisions and avoid legal trouble. Stay updated by:

Knowledge is power, and undocumented immigrants who stay informed are better equipped to handle legal challenges. Being proactive about immigration updates means you won’t be caught off guard by new policies that could affect your status or future in the U.S.

  1. Have a Backup Plan for Deportation

While undocumented immigrants hope to remain in the U.S., it’s critical to have a backup plan in case deportation becomes a reality. If deportation happens, have a plan:

  • Decide Where to Go: If deportation happens, have a plan for where you will stay and how you will get there.
  • Save Emergency Money: Keep some cash or a secure financial resource available for travel or legal fees.
  • Stay in Touch with Family: Let your loved ones know your plan so they can help and support you.

Let Davis & Associates Help You Stay Prepared and Stay Safe

Navigating life as an undocumented immigrant comes with many challenges, but you don’t have to face them alone. Whether you need legal guidance, help understanding your rights, or assistance in creating an emergency safety plan, Davis & Associates is here to support you. Our experienced Texas immigration attorneys are dedicated to protecting the rights of undocumented immigrants and providing the legal solutions you need to stay in the U.S. and keep your family safe.

Don’t wait until an emergency happens—take action now. Contact Davis & Associates today to schedule a consultation and start building a secure future for you and your loved ones. Your safety, your rights, and your future matter—let us help you protect them.

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