With recent reports of increased federal immigration activity in communities across California, Governor Gavin Newsom recently urged Californians to know their rights and take steps to stay safe. 

California law limits how state and local police can take part in federal immigration enforcement.  The State also provides immigration legal services, community-based support and resources to help immigrant families. 

Steps to protect yourself and your family 

  • Make a family emergency plan today.  Choose emergency contacts, and plan who will care for children or dependents if a parent or caregiver is detained. 
  • Keep important documents and phone numbers in a safe place and make sure that other trusted people know where to find them.   
  • If you have one, remember your immigration number (“A” number) and share it with someone you know.  An A number is provided to noncitizen immigrants by immigration officials.  It will help family members locate you if you are detained. 
  • If you witness federal enforcement activity, do not threaten, assault, obstruct or interfere with federal agents or law enforcement operations.  Running away can increase the risk that Immigration and Custom Enforcement will detain you.   
  • People have First Amendment rights to peacefully observe and document activity where permitted by law.   
  • You have the right to remain silent.  You can say: “I choose to remain silent.” You do not have to answer questions about where you were born, your immigration status or how you entered the country.  Do not lie or provide false documents. 
  • Ask to speak with a lawyer.  If you are detained, ask for an attorney.  Do not sign documents you do not understand or have not reviewed with a lawyer.  In immigration proceedings, you generally have the right to hire a lawyer, but the government usually does not provide a lawyer for free. 
  • Get trusted legal help.  Consult a qualified immigration attorney or accredited legal service provider and have a signed G-28 form if you are concerned about being arrested.  Be cautious of anyone who promises guaranteed results or charges money for legal services they are not authorized to provide. 
  • Report possible misconduct.  If you believe a federal agent has acted unlawfully, you can report it at oag.ca.gov/reportmisconduct.  If you believe a crime is occurring or someone is in immediate danger, call 911. 
  • You have the right to refuse consent to a search. You can say, “I do not consent to a search.” Do not physically resist if an agent conducts a search. 
  • If agents come to your home, you generally do not have to open the door.  Ask agents to show you a warrant.  A judicial warrant signed by a judge is different from an immigration administrative warrant issued by immigration authorities.  Do not open the door simply because an agent says they have a warrant. 

Protections at schools and public hospitals 

California has additional protections for students, families and patients: 

  • Schools: Student information is protected, and there are rules for immigration enforcement on school campuses.  
  • Public hospitals: Certain private areas and some patient information are protected by state law.  

Learn more 

Visit ca.gov/immigration for more information about your rights, legal services and resources for families, workers and businesses.  

Read the Governor’s full announcement for more information about California’s laws and protections. 


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