Know Your Rights
This page is informational only and not legal advice.
You can call emergency services — or use one of these non-police options first. Only call 911 if you feel safe doing so. ICE Watch hotline (New Orleans): 504-221-1499.
Informational-Only Disclaimer
Keep this page offline and share it with trusted people. Laws and policies can change; consult a lawyer for advice about your situation.
Immediate Rights (First Person Script)
Use these exact lines:
“I am using my right to remain silent.
I am not opening the door unless you have a warrant signed by a judge.
I am not answering questions about my immigration status, where I was born, or whether I have papers.
I am using my right to speak with an attorney.
I am not signing anything I do not understand.”
How to Act in the Moment
- Stay calm, breathe slowly, and keep your hands visible.
- Ask, “Am I free to go?” If yes, leave calmly and without arguing.
- Do not consent to searches of your person, phone, home, or vehicle.
- Document badge numbers or names only if safe to do so.
- Avoid signing documents until you speak with an attorney.
After Arrest or ICE Raid: What to Do
- Say clearly: “I want to speak to a lawyer. I do not consent to questioning.”
- Do not sign anything without legal advice. You do not need to answer about immigration status.
- Call a trusted person or lawyer. Memorize one number in case your phone is taken.
- If ICE is spotted: Call 504-221-1499 (New Orleans ICE Watch) or 833-744-4870 (LORI statewide line).
- Witnessed an arrest or raid? Document time, location, number of agents, photos/video if safe. Share only with legal advocates.
Trusted Legal Aid Orgs
- ISLA: 504-265-0416 — Free immigration defense. islaimmigration.org
- Orleans Public Defenders: 504-821-8101 — Free criminal defense.
- Catholic Charities Immigration Services: 504-310-6873
- Louisiana Language Access Coalition (LLAC): 504-315-5751 — Report denial of interpreter.
- Community Mediation Services: 504-222-2954 — Neighbor or landlord disputes.
- Beyond Harm NOLA: 504-408-1284 — DV/SA support, harm reduction lens.
How to Use This Site to Prepare
- Print this page or save it offline; no account or tracking is used.
- Copy the script into a wallet card and share it with household members.
- Plan regroup points using the Community Safety guide and keep them on paper.
- Review the Private Communication Tools guide before traveling or sending sensitive updates.
Practice Script & Regroup Sheet
Practice saying the script aloud once a week so the words come quickly under stress. Use the sheet below to assign who checks in, where to meet, and who carries copies.
Regroup Sheet (print or copy to paper):
- Primary regroup point and time:
- Backup regroup point and time:
- Who checks on elders/children/neighbors:
- Two lawyer/advocate numbers:
- Who carries spare phone charger and medications:
Practice Script
- Practice alone, then with a friend who can ask simple questions.
- Role-play being asked to open a door; repeat the warrant line above.
- Time yourself pausing and breathing before responding.
- Keep two paper copies of the script in your bag and wallet.
Print & Carry
This page is printable and does not store data. Print double-sided wallet cards using the script above or copy them to paper for quick reference.
Legal Notice
Nothing here is legal advice. Contact a qualified attorney for guidance about your situation. Read the full notice at the Legal Notice page.