Whether you’re trying to protect yourself or help someone close to you who has already been detained, knowing what steps to take can make a difference.
Aaron Reichlin-Melnick, senior fellow at the American Immigration Council, emphasizes the importance of getting legal help early. “Some individuals, when detained, are held in immigration detention centers, while others may be released. Some have prior immigration histories that could lead to immediate deportation, whereas others have never had any contact with ICE before and are simply placed into immigration court proceedings.
Every case is different — this is exactly why it’s so important to speak with a lawyer to understand the risks and possible outcomes specific to each person’s situation.”
This guide outlines five key steps to help you navigate this difficult process and support your loved one.
Seek legal representation
Legal support is essential. Always ensure any attorney or representative is licensed. If your loved one is detained in New York City and cannot afford a lawyer, free legal services are available through the New York Immigrant Family Unity Project (NYIFUP). The referral form is available here.
Also Read: How to Report and Prevent Notario Fraud in Immigration Cases
You can also reach out to these reputable organizations:
Also Read: Pro-Bono Lawyers And Free Legal Services in New York Immigration Courts
Locate your loved one in ICE detention
ICE operates an Online Detainee Locator System (ODLS) to help families find out where someone is being held. You can search by:
- Full name, date of birth, and country of origin
- Or, if available, their Alien Registration Number (A-Number)
Also Read: Lost Your USCIS A-Number? Find It With This Guide
- Check for spelling errors, especially when searching hyphenated or double last names.
- The Locator System cannot search for records of persons under 18 years. For assistance locating minors, family members can contact the Office of Refugee Resettlement National Call Center at 1-800-203-7001. The center is open 24/7.
- If no information is available, contact your country’s consulate or embassy for assistance.
Also Read: How to Use ICE’s Detainee Locator System
Stay connected and provide support
Once you locate your loved one, contact the detention facility to ask about communication options. Some centers allow in-person visits, while others only permit video calls. Each facility has its own rules, including how to set up a phone account so your loved one can reach you.
If you’d like to send money for personal needs or extra food, ask the detention facility how to contribute to your loved one’s commissary account.
In most cases, you are not allowed to bring physical items like clothes or food, since detention centers provide these directly. However, items such as legal papers, books and letters may be allowed depending on facility rules.
Gather important documents
Prepare and keep copies of essential documents that may be needed for legal defense. Having these ready can help your attorney build a stronger case.
These include:
- Identification (passport, state ID)
- Immigration documents (visas, notices to appear)
- Birth and marriage certificates
- Medical records
- Prior legal or court documents
What if you’re a parent?
If you’re a non-citizen and caring for a child, it’s important to plan ahead. Hasan Shafiqullah, supervising immigration attorney at The Legal Aid Society, recommends taking proactive steps.
The Legal Aid Society’s guide suggests:
- Updating the emergency contact information you have at your child’s school
- Obtaining or renewing your child’s passport
- Authorizing someone you trust to make medical and education decisions
- Setting up a power of attorney for managing property or finances
These measures can ensure your child is cared for by someone you trust if you’re no longer able to.
Also Read: How To Prep Finances, Childcare and More If You Fear Being Deported or Detained by ICE
Stay informed and cautious
Finally, rely only on trusted sources of information. Misinformation spreads quickly on social and messaging platforms and can cause unnecessary panic.
