In a recent interview with TIME, President Trump proposed a plan to deport millions of individuals, suggesting a significant escalation in immigration enforcement measures. This plan, according to the President, would likely require a massive expansion of detention centers to hold those suspected of being in the U.S. without authorization before their deportation. He stated, “Well, we’re going to do something with the border, very strong, very powerful. That’ll be our first signal — first signal to America that we’re not playing games.” This statement brings up both practical and ethical concerns, suggesting a sweeping and aggressive approach to immigration enforcement.

With these changes being discussed, it’s important for everyone, especially families with different immigration statuses, to know that nothing has changed right now, and your rights are still protected by U.S. law. At the Law Offices of James A. Welcome, our immigration lawyers are ready to give you the legal support you need to handle these uncertain times. We are here to help you understand your rights and support you through any challenges that might come.

Legal Background: Under U.S. law, citizenship is automatically granted to all individuals born in the United States, regardless of their parents’ immigration status. This is protected under the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which guarantees citizenship to all persons born or naturalized in the United States.

The Claim: Recent comments have hinted at the idea of deporting U.S. citizens if their family members don’t have documents. This idea has no basis in law and goes against long-standing constitutional rights. U.S. citizens, including kids, cannot be deported because deportation laws only apply to non-citizens. At the Law Offices of James A. Welcome, our immigration lawyers are ready to help you understand these legal protections and will fight for your rights if these issues impact you directly.

Your Rights During ICE Encounters:

Interactions with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) can be stressful and frightening, but knowing your rights can provide some control over the situation:

1. Right to Remain Silent: You are not required to answer questions about your birthplace, immigration status, or whether you are a U.S. citizen. You may refuse to speak to ICE agents or any law enforcement officer.
2. Do Not Open Doors: ICE cannot enter your home without a warrant signed by a judge. You can ask them to slide the warrant under the door before deciding whether to open it.
3. Right to Deny Search: Without a warrant, you have the right to deny ICE the permission to search yourself or your belongings.
4. Right to a Lawyer: If you are detained, you have the right to have a lawyer, but the government isn’t required to provide one for you. It’s very important to have the contact details of an immigration lawyer who can help you. Our attorneys at the Law Offices of James A. Welcome can be reached at (203) 753-7300.
5. Do Not Sign Anything: You may be presented with documents in English or another language; do not sign anything you do not fully understand, as it might lead to your deportation without a hearing.

Family Unity and Deportation Policies: President Trump shared his thoughts on deporting families in an interview on NBC’s “Meet the Press” with Kristen Welker. He said, “I don’t want to be breaking up families, so the only way you don’t break up the family is you keep them together and you have to send them all back.” This approach poses serious constitutional and ethical issues because it implies deporting U.S. citizens together with their undocumented family members, a plan that is not only unfeasible but also against the constitution. Our team is committed to helping maintain family unity by providing legal guidance and representation. Reach us at (203) 753-7300.

Action Steps:

1. Stay Informed: Keep up to date with the latest immigration laws and policies.
2. Consult Legal Help: If you are unsure of your legal status or rights, consult with an immigration attorney who can provide guidance based on your specific circumstances. Remember, our attorneys at the Law Offices of James A. Welcome are here from start to finish.

At the Law Offices of James A. Welcome, we are dedicated to making sure that everyone understands their rights and is treated justly under the law. Thousands of immigrants have partnered with us, benefitting from our over two decades of immigration legal experience. If you have any concerns about your or your family’s immigration status, please reach out to us at (203) 753-7300 or visit our website at welcomelawfirm.com.