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Próximo Paso Educational Series

Know Your Rights

The U.S. Constitution protects you regardless of your immigration status. Knowing your rights is your first line of defense.

Learn My Rights All Modules Know Your Rights

Knowledge Is Your Shield

When you know what your rights are, fear loses its power. You do not need to be a lawyer. You do not need to speak perfect English. You just need to know that the Constitution protects you — and how to exercise that protection.

"Knowing your rights can prevent an arrest, preserve defenses in a deportation case, and help you identify when your rights are being violated."— Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC), 2026
The Reality

Fear Is the Most Powerful Tool Used Against You

Many people do not exercise their rights because they do not know they have them. Abusive employers, scammers, and even some officials count on your silence and your fear. But the law is on your side — if you know how to use it.

It is not your fault that nobody taught you this. But now you know.

Your Rights

Seven Rights You Must Know

Each of these rights is backed by the U.S. Constitution and federal law. Knowing them can protect you and your family.

01

Right 1

Your Constitutional Foundation

Rights that protect every person on U.S. soil.

02

Right 2

Rights with Police and ICE

What to do and what to say during an encounter.

03

Right 3

Rights at Home

Your home is protected — know the difference between warrants.

04

Right 4

Rights in Your Vehicle

What happens if you are stopped while driving.

05

Right 5

Rights at Work

Federal labor laws protect every worker, regardless of status.

06

Right 6

Rights to Education and Healthcare

Your children can go to school. Emergency rooms must treat you.

07

Right 7

What to Carry and Your Emergency Plan

Be prepared so fear does not make your decisions.

Phrases That Can Protect You

Memorize these phrases. Practice them with your family. In a moment of stress, the right words are your best defense.

1
"I am exercising my right to remain silent."
Use when asked about your immigration status
2
"I do not consent to a search."
Use when they want to search your home, car, or belongings
3
"I want to speak to a lawyer."
Use before signing anything or answering questions
4
"Am I free to go?"
Use to determine if you are being detained
5
"Please show me a judicial warrant signed by a judge."
Use when ICE is at your door
Your Plan

Six Steps to Protect Your Family

Preparation eliminates panic. Take these steps today so your family is ready tomorrow.

1

Download and print your Próximo Paso Know Your Rights Card — carry it in your wallet at all times. Show it to any officer instead of speaking.

Download Know Your Rights Card (PDF) →
2

Memorize this phrase: "I am exercising my right to remain silent. I want to speak to a lawyer."

3

Fill out and share the Emergency Family Contact Sheet with your trusted contact — make sure they have copies of key documents and know the plan for your children.

Download Emergency Family Contact Sheet (PDF) →
4

Save the number of a local immigration legal aid organization in your phone.

5

Review the Detention Emergency Action Plan with your family — know exactly what to do if someone is detained, who to call, and how to protect your rights.

Download Detention Emergency Action Plan (PDF) →
6

Connect with Próximo Paso for bilingual guidance and community support.

Judicial Warrant vs. ICE Warrant

Know the difference — it can protect your home.

Judicial Warrant

  • Signed by a federal or state judge
  • Lists a specific address
  • Issued by a court
  • DOES give them the right to enter

ICE Warrant (Administrative)

  • Signed by an ICE officer, NOT a judge
  • Form I-200 or I-205
  • Issued by ICE, not a court
  • Does NOT give them the right to enter your home

Download. Print. Protect Yourself.

These three documents are your most important tools. Download them now, print them, and share them with your family.

🛡️

Know Your Rights Card

Download PDF
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Emergency Family Contact Sheet

Download PDF
📋

Detention Emergency Action Plan

Download PDF

Your Rights, Your Power

The information in this guide is not legal advice. It is education. For your specific situation, always consult with an immigration attorney. But remember: you have rights, and nobody can take them away.

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