Immigrant’s Rights
The Law Office of William T. Hennessy helps immigrants understand the best methods for attaining legal status in the United States, no matter what changes in the law take place.
If it is not possible for an individual to currently gain legal status, we will help that individual prepare to gain legal status or citizenship. The Law Office of William T. Hennessy will also help individuals determine how to protect themselves if they have contact with law enforcement.
If you are an immigrant and you are stopped by any law enforcement officer, you have the right to ask the officer if you are being arrested or detained. If the officer says, “NO, you are not being arrested or detained,” ask the officer if you may leave. When the officer says that you may leave, slowly and calmly walk away.
If the officer says, “YES, you are being arrested or detained,” you have the right to remain silent. You DO NOT have to speak to the enforcement officer or answer any questions. Immediately contact your lawyer. Do not sign or agree to anything until your lawyer arrives.
Additional advice for immigrants in the United States:
- Carry a card with the contact information of your immigration attorney. Share this information with close members of your family as well.
- Secure important papers, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and passports. Place these documents in a safe, easy-to-find location so that you and your family can access these materials easily. Do not carry these documents with you.
- Carry a card indicating to law enforcement that you wish to remain silent until you speak with your lawyer. In the links below, we’ve included our business-card-sized versions of this card in English, Spanish with English translation, and Portuguese with English translation (see links below).