What to Do After a Loved One Is Detained by ICE: Detailed Guidance from NYC Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs

ICE Philadelphia conducted a worksite enforcement operation at a Philadelphia car wash Jan. 28 and arrested seven individuals. (ICE)

The NYC Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) has released updated Know Your Rights booklets, now accessible in multiple languages, to provide critical guidance and resources for individuals navigating the complexities of immigration enforcement. The comprehensive guides offer step-by-step advice on what to do if a friend or family member is detained by ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement).

ICE Philadelphia conducted a worksite enforcement operation at a Philadelphia car wash Jan. 28 and arrested seven individuals. (ICE)

Key Information from the Updated Booklet

1. Locating a Detained Loved One
If a friend or family member is detained by ICE, you can confirm their location using the online ICE Detainee Locator at locator.ice.gov. To use the locator, you will need:

  • The detainee’s country of birth AND either their “A number” (an 8- or 9-digit identification number found on immigration documents or detainee wristbands) OR their first name, last name, and date of birth.
    Tip: Ensure names are spelled correctly. If you don’t have the A number, ask the detainee for it when you contact them.

2. Visiting a Detained Individual
Undocumented individuals can generally visit a detained friend or family member without risking their own immigration status. However, each detention facility has specific requirements for identification, background checks, and visiting hours.

  • Confirm details by calling the facility directly.
  • Ensure you are on the visitation list and adhere to facility-specific rules.
  • For facility information, visit www.ice.gov/detention-facilities.

3. Access to Legal Representation
The U.S. government does not provide lawyers for immigrants facing deportation. However, detainees may qualify for free legal representation through the New York Immigrant Family Unity Project (NYIFUP) if:

  • Their case is at the Varick St. Immigration Court (or in New Jersey for NYC residents).
  • It is their first immigration court hearing for the case.
  • Their household income is below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

For those who do not qualify, MOIA’s Immigration Legal Support Hotline (1-800-354-0365, Monday–Friday, 9 AM–6 PM) offers assistance with interpretation services.

4. Court Dates and Detention Length

  • Court Dates: Find the first court date and location by calling the Immigration Court Information Line at 1-800-898-7180 (automated, English and Spanish) or visiting https://acis.eoir.justice.gov/en/.
  • Detention Length: Detainees may remain in custody until their case is resolved or until a judge grants bond. If bond is granted, it must be paid to ICE for release. Organizations like the Envision Freedom FundBlack Immigrants Bail Fund, and LGBTQ Freedom Fund may provide financial assistance for those unable to afford bond.

5. Additional Steps

  • Document the Arrest: Write down detailed accounts of the detention and gather evidence (photos, videos, etc.).
  • Report the Arrest: Contact the Immigrant Defense Project’s Helpline at 212-725-6422.

For the latest updates and resources, visit www.nyc.gov/knowyourrights.

Click here to download the booklet.