What can you do if Immigration violates your rights?
by: Northwest Justice Project
Everyone in the United States has the right to be free from detentions and searches without legal cause. Persons may not be detained or searched just because of their race or national origin.
If you have been mistreated or a victim of discrimination by immigration officers, you have a right to make a complaint. Making a complaint can help stop any future abuses by Immigration officers.
What will a complaint do?
A complaint will cause an investigation of the officers conduct to determine if there was wrongdoing.
A complaint informs the authorities that there may be a problem with the individual officer or the officers in your area.
A complaint provides a record that others can refer to if there are problems again. If there are many complaints, it is more likely that the authorities will take action to correct the problem.
Past complaints have resulted in court orders prohibiting illegal car stops and unlawful searches of homes.
Where can you find out more about making a complaint of Immigration abuse?
If you have suffered discrimination or have been abused by Immigration officers, and want to obtain assistance in making an INS complaint, you can call one of the legal services providers noted below. It is important to know that:
The office will protect your right to confidentiality (secrecy). The office will not reveal your name or other information about you to the INS without first obtaining your authorization. You may want to make an INS complaint without revealing your name. No complaint will be made unless you authorize it after discussing your concerns with an attorney.
This publication provides general information concerning your rights and responsibilities. It is not intended as a substitute for specific legal advice. This information is current as of the date of its printing, July 2002.
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