📋 NCN KNOW YOUR RIGHTS — SERIES

  1. What To Do If ICE Comes To Your Door You do not have to open the door without a signed judicial warrant. Ask them to slide it under the door — a deportation order is not the same as a judicial warrant. You have the right to remain silent. Do not lie to federal agents. Say clearly “I want to speak to a lawyer” if detained. Document badge numbers and what was said. This is informational only — consult a licensed attorney for legal advice.

  2. Your Rights During a Traffic Stop You must provide your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance. You have the right to remain silent beyond that. You do not have to consent to a search of your vehicle — say clearly “I do not consent to a search.” Stay calm and keep your hands visible. If you believe your rights were violated, file a complaint after the stop — not during.

  3. What To Do If You Are Arrested Stay calm and do not resist — even if you believe the arrest is unlawful. Say clearly “I am invoking my right to remain silent” and “I want a lawyer.” Do not answer questions without legal counsel present. You have the right to make a phone call. Remember the officer’s name and badge number.

  4. Your Rights At School — Can ICE Enter? Under Minnesota’s proposed legislation, ICE agents would need a judicial warrant to enter schools. Regardless of immigration status, all children have the right to a K-12 education under the 1982 Supreme Court ruling Plyler v. Doe. Students cannot be questioned about immigration status at school. If ICE appears at your school contact a parent or guardian immediately.

  5. What To Do If Federal Agents Approach You On The Street You have the right to ask “Am I free to go?” If they say yes, calmly walk away. If they say no, you are being detained. Say “I am invoking my right to remain silent” and “I want a lawyer.” You do not have to show ID in most situations unless you are driving. Do not run or physically resist.

  6. How To File a Complaint Against Law Enforcement For MPD — file through the Minneapolis Office of Police Conduct Review at minneapolismn.gov. For federal agents — file with the DHS Office of Inspector General at oig.dhs.gov. Document the incident as thoroughly as possible — date, time, location, officer names or badge numbers, and witnesses. You can also contact a civil rights attorney or legal aid organization.

  7. Your Rights If You Witness An Arrest You have the right to observe and record police activity in public as long as you do not interfere. Stay at a safe distance. Do not physically intervene. You can film openly — do not hide it. If asked to move, comply but continue recording from the new location. Your footage could be critical evidence.

All articles in this series are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation. Real Stories. Real Impact. Across America. — National Correspondent Network