Did ICE detain a family member?

What is happening

• ICE can transfer the person to a detention center in another state within days. The ICE locator (locator.ice.gov) shows where they are; it sometimes takes hours to update.
• The detained person may be offered papers to sign, including voluntary departure. Some of those papers waive the right to see a judge.
• Many people can request a bond hearing. Others, because of certain records or how they entered the country, are not eligible. That is decided case by case.

What the attorney does

• Locates the person using the A-number and contacts the detention center and ICE.
• Determines whether bond is available and files the request with the immigration judge.
• Prepares the evidence of ties: family, time in the country, work, support letters, and the criminal record if any.

What to gather now

• Full name as it appears on documents, date of birth, country, and A-number if you have it.
• Children's birth certificates, marriage certificate, family members' status.
• Proof of time in the U.S.: leases, receipts, school records.
• Tax returns and employment letters.
• Papers from any criminal case.

Common questions

How much is bond?

The judge or ICE sets it case by case. The legal minimum is $1,500 and it can be much higher. The attorney can ask the judge to lower it.

Can a notario help?

No. Only a licensed attorney or an accredited representative can represent someone before immigration. Verify the license before paying anyone.

Can I visit my family member?

Each center has its own visiting and phone rules. The attorney will tell you the rules for the center where the person is held.