We Oppose These Raids:

As a law firm both founded by immigrants and located in Chicago, Illinois, a declared welcoming city, McEntee Law strongly opposes the Administration’s decision to conduct these cruel and unnecessary raids which have already caused undue burden and irreparable harm to our communities everywhere. We stand with Mayor Lori Lightfoot, Governor Pritzker and the rest of the city of Chicago in denouncing yet another anti-immigrant decision coming from this Administration.

Who Might Be At Risk?

As far as we know, these raid will be targeted and the likely targets are people with final deportation orders or people who may have missed immigration court dates. This may amount to thousands of people nationwide, but it’s not “millions” as has been stated. Please note that people in vicinity of those targeted could, unfortunately, also be at risk.

What Can People Do?

If someone you know might be at risk, they should call 18008987180 and enter their 9-digit A# number into the system. If the system indicates that an order of removal has entered, they need a qualified immigration lawyer ASAP. Please however note that some people may have a different kind of removal order and this may not come up on this 1800 number.

Know Your Rights:

Every individual residing in the U.S., regardless of immigration status, has certain rights under the U.S. Constitution. We want to provide several materials to be shared so every immigrant and advocate KNOWS THEIR RIGHTS if ICE comes to their home, place of business, or anywhere in public.

  • If you are pulled over in a traffic stop: ask if the officer is from the local police department or ICE. Immigration officers sometimes call themselves as “police,” but it is important to know what agency they represent. If they are ICE officers, you do not need to answer any questions or provide any documentation before you speak with a lawyer.

  • If an ICE officer knocks on your door: Do not open the door. Officers must have a warrant *signed by a judge* to enter your home. ICE warrants are never signed by judges. Here is a sample of what an ICE warrant typically looks like, and how they differ from judicial warrants.

What Can US Citizens Do To Help?

If you are a U.S. citizen and witness an ICE enforcement action, help document it to hold ICE accountable by recording the action with your phone and contact the Family Support Hotline at 1-855-HELP-MY-FAMILY (1-855-435-7693) to let them know what happened.

If you are or someone you know is in fear of these raids, please rest assured there are organizations ready to help. For more information on how you can best protect yourself and your loved ones, you can always call our office: (773) 828-9544.

Be sure to follow our Managing Partner, Fiona, on Twitter @USVisaLawyer for the latest immigration news.