Protecting Yourself in the Wake of a Call for Stricter Immigration Policies
The 5th Circuit Court has struck down President Obama’s Deferred Action for Parents of Americans and Lawful Residents Program, better known as DAPA. As we discussed in early November and in August of this year, the plan could have helped millions of people in America stay with their families. The White House can appeal this decision to the Supreme Court, but an appeal takes time – and the Court is not required to review the decision. If the Supreme Court decides to review the 5th Circuit decision, a decision may not be announced until a new president takes office.
The 5th Circuit’s announcement came a few days before the horrific terror attack in Paris, France – an attack that led Tennessee lawmakers to try to ban Syrian or other refugees from settling in Tennessee. The Tennessean reports that “Lt. Gov. Ron Ramsey, R-Blountville, and House Speaker Beth Harwell, R-Nashville, called for a federal moratorium on accepting refugees” because “the opportunity that radical Islamists could embed themselves in the movement of refugees is large and growing. These refugees are impossible to thoroughly investigate and properly vet.”
This reaction is echoed throughout the country now because of fear. We understand that fear, but know that the following weeks might be difficult for both refugees and legal immigrants, even those who have lived with their families in the US for years. Regardless of the present controversy, the law guarantees you certain rights and protections.
- You do not have to let anyone in your home. In order for a government or law enforcement official to search your home, he or she must have a search warrant. You do not have to let anyone inside your home without one, but you may agree to a search. If you do let an agent or official in, then he or she may search your home.
- You can ask for an attorney. If you are questioned in your home, or asked to come to government building to be questioned by police, the FBI or ICE, you can request an attorney to help you. You do not have to answer any questions without a lawyer present.
- You do not have to sign anything. Talk to an immigration lawyer first.
This may be a difficult and trying time for immigrants and refugees in Tennessee and throughout the country. If you have questions or if you believe you may have been abused or coerced in some way, contact Nashville immigration attorney Perry Craft at the Law Office of Perry A. Craft, PLLC.
Perry A. Craft has dedicated his life to helping people in need. He has tried, settled, or resolved numerous civil and criminal cases in State and Federal courts, and has represented teachers and administrators before school boards, administrative judges, and the state Board of Education. Learn more about Attorney Craft.