In Los Angeles, California, increasing raids by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement are instilling fear among immigrant families, particularly as many individuals face the prospect of being apprehended for minor infractions. Immigration attorney Cynthia Santiago, who has dedicated over 13 years to this field, emphasizes the heightened sense of anxiety during this era, which has been exacerbated by aggressive enforcement policies under previous and current administrations.
Santiago highlights the necessity for immigrants to be well-informed about their legal rights, especially amidst the backdrop of raids and the reopening of previously closed immigration cases. In a recent discussion, she provided crucial legal advice for those navigating this uncertain landscape, urging families to prepare thoroughly.
Preparation begins with a complete understanding of each family member’s immigration history. This includes knowing how and when they entered the country, any prior detentions at the border, and maintaining documentation related to their immigration status. Furthermore, individuals should be aware of any past criminal records, even misdemeanors, as these factors can significantly influence their immigration cases.
“It is vital for individuals to recognize that these histories matter in legal contexts,” Santiago said, noting that prior deportation orders and denied appeals are crucial pieces of information that can affect current immigration proceedings. In cases where deportation is imminent, emergency legal assistance becomes crucial. Conversely, individuals who have not previously interacted with the immigration system may have opportunities to contest their cases and potentially secure a bond.
Santiago advises that seeking assistance from nonprofit immigrant rights organizations and contacting an attorney for a case assessment are essential steps. Such proactive measures can empower families to make informed decisions should they find themselves facing detention by immigration authorities.
In addition, Santiago warns against the proliferation of immigration scams that tend to arise during periods of increased enforcement. She identifies several red flags for individuals to watch out for, including claims made by social media influencers offering legal services for a fee and attorneys demanding substantial payments for standby availability. She stresses the importance of scrutinizing anyone who promises quick solutions or pressures clients into pursuing cases that previously were deemed unwinnable.
Notario fraud, where individuals pose as attorneys to exploit immigrants, is resurfacing. Santiago highlights that these scammers take advantage of the vulnerable populations seeking legal help, often misunderstanding the role of a notary public.
As immigration officials ramp up their efforts, Santiago notes an alarming trend where ICE is seeking to reopen administratively closed immigration cases. This process can unexpectedly place individuals back into removal proceedings. An administratively closed case simply means it is dormant, awaiting possible review by either party. Santiago recently encountered a case that was reactivated after 11 years of inactivity.
Notices regarding the revival of such cases are typically sent to the attorney of record or the last known address of the individual. Those who have not maintained current contact information run the risk of missing important hearings, potentially resulting in deportation orders. The system relies heavily on timely communication, with notices often dispatched by mail, which can shorten the response period for legal representation.
To maintain awareness of their status, Santiago suggests that individuals check their immigration case details through the Executive Office of Immigration Review’s website, where they can input their Alien Registration Number, commonly referred to as their “A” number.
In this climate of uncertainty, remaining informed and connected is more critical than ever for immigrant families facing the complexities of the U.S. immigration system.
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