If you are an undocumented immigrant, you’ve likely heard of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement or ICE. ICE is the agency responsible for detaining and deporting unauthorized immigrants.
If you have received a “Notice to Appear,” it is critical that you take the appropriate measures to prepare for your appointment with ICE. This post will advise you on effectively preparing for your ICE appointment and how a skillful immigration lawyer can help you with this challenging process.
How to Prepare for an ICE Appointment
- Collect all your documents. You may need to bring several documents to your ICE appointment. You may need identification documents such as passports and driver’s licenses, evidence of U.S residency, educational transcripts or records, proof of employment, and health insurance cards. If you have any more paperwork, bring it with you.
- Meet with an immigration lawyer. If ICE has issued you a Notice to Appear, it is vital that you reach out to a knowledgeable immigration lawyer as soon as possible. Your immigration lawyer can help you understand the legal procedures involved and advise you on the next steps. If required, they may also represent you in a court hearing.
- Understand your legal rights. Knowing your rights is one of the most important strategies to protect yourself during a meeting with ICE. You have the right to remain silent, consult with an attorney before answering any questions, and avoid deportation without first appearing before an immigration judge.
How Your Immigration Lawyer Can Help You With ICE
If you are approached by ICE, you should obtain legal help as quickly as possible. An immigration lawyer can help be sure you understand your rights and determine the following steps to take. Here are some of the services that an immigration attorney may provide:
- Ensure you understand your rights. An immigration lawyer can help you understand your legal rights, such as your right to remain silent. They’ll also be able to alert you about any risks you associated with communicating with ICE authorities.
- Assist you in navigating the immigration process. An immigration lawyer can help you navigate the complicated immigration process, including assisting you in filing the proper papers and accompanying you to hearings. This will ensure that your matter before ICE is dealt with effectively and efficiently.
- Defend You in Court. An immigration lawyer can represent you in court and fight for your rights if needed. This might include fighting deportation or appealing an unfavorable USCIS judgment.
Need Help Dealing With ICE? Contact Tourzani & Long, LLC
At Tourzani & Long, LLC, we are passionate about fighting for your future. If you have been informed that you need to be present for an appointment with ICE, call (201) 987-0036. You can contact us 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to discuss your concerns. We will work hard to protect your rights.
Tourzani & Long, LLC – we proudly service New Jersey and New York.