KNOW YOUR RIGHTS: ICE Enforcement

*PRESS RELEASE* 
AG Campbell Issues Guidance For Immigrants, Families, And Communities On ICE Enforcement
‘Know Your Rights’ Guide Provides Communities with Information About Their Rights and the Legal Framework for ICE Stops, Arrests, and Inquiries'

For immediate release: 5/29/2025

Office of the Attorney General

Boston — Today, amid increased immigration enforcement activity across Massachusetts, Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell released a ‘Know Your Rights’ guide designed to help immigrants, families, and communities understand their rights and the basic legal framework for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions. 

“From arresting parents in front of their children to pulling people who present no public safety threat out of their cars in broad daylight, the aggressive ICE tactics we’re seeing across the Commonwealth do not protect the public, and instead spread fear,” said AG Campbell. “In releasing this guidance, I strongly encourage everyone to inform themselves of their rights when they see immigration officers in their communities.” 

The guidance responds to questions the Attorney General’s Office (AGO) has received about the actions of ICE, the role of local police, and what people should know when they or others are approached by immigration officers. The guide explains that ICE usually cannot legally enter private spaces, such as homes or private offices, without a judicial warrant or voluntary consent, but generally can arrest people without a judicial warrant in public spaces. Bystanders can watch and record interactions but are not allowed to obstruct, impede, or assault an ICE officer. Individuals arrested by ICE have the right to remain silent and can refuse to sign documents they do not understand. Local law enforcement cannot be compelled to carry out federal civil immigration enforcement, and their cooperation with ICE must comply with state and local legal limitations. The guidance also highlights questions that might be helpful to ask officers during an arrest.

Finally, the guide points to additional resources for various stakeholders for immigrants and institutions that serve them. These include guidance for service providers, health care providers, K-12 schools, institutions of higher education, and more.