Miami-Dade County Democratic Party Chair and immigration attorney Laura Kelley has released a video directed toward illegal immigrants should they encounter the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). With President Donald Trump (R) facilitating raids against illegal immigrants across the country, the Miami-Dade County Democrat Chair reminds migrants to know their rights should they encounter ICE.
Miami-Dade Chair @Kelley4Florida is an immigration attorney with guidance for Floridians targeted by raids.
🚨Here’s what to do if ICE visits your home, church or school: pic.twitter.com/3zIVcrXvyf
— Florida Democrats (@FlaDems) January 31, 2025
"In the United States of America, undocumented immigrants have constitutional rights first, ICE agents or their deputies cannot enter a home without a valid search warrant signed by a judge," Kelley begins. "Deportation warrants from the Department of Homeland Security do not count. Any warrant that is presented should be closely inspected before agreeing to comply, and if at all possible, don't open the door but ask to see the warrant by having it slipped under the door or held up to a window."
Furthermore, the Democrat immigration attorney shares that illegal immigrants do not have to respond to questions from ICE and that they have the right to remain silent at all times.
"Second, undocumented immigrants do not have to answer ICE's questions, including where they were born or how they entered the United States. They can choose to state I remain silent. Nevertheless, if an undocumented immigrant has been present for more than two years in the United States, I recommend they gather proof and have copies readily accessible," Kelley says.
Moreover, Kelley mentions that immigrants should not produce documents, share their country of origin, or sign any documents they don't understand as they are not required to do so.
"Third, undocumented immigrants are not required to show documents indicating their country of origin. However, they should never present false documents or lie," said Kelley. "Four, if detained, individuals can request to speak to a lawyer and request a free call to their lawyer or family. They should refuse to sign documents without understanding them, and may ask for a list of pro bono lawyers if necessary, and if you already have a lawyer, I recommend carrying a hard copy of their contact information with you at all times."
The Miami-Dade County Democrat Chair concludes by recommending to potential detainees to never drive without a license and hire an "experienced and licensed attorney" to handle their case.
"Finally, immigration detainees have the right to speak to their country's consulate for assistance. That said, I highly recommend that no one, including undocumented immigrants, drive without a license. I also strongly recommend that you ensure that your legal representative is an experienced and licensed attorney. In the United States, it is not legal for 'notarios' or paralegals to give legal advice under any circumstances," concluded Kelley.
