In terms of immigration, California is one of the most welcoming states. It’s not hard to see why: it has virtually everything an immigrant could want as a landing spot. Whether it’s family, work, or just starting fresh, our state is a popular option. But there’s also the legal framework of being a sanctuary state that makes it so attractive. Our team at Maison Law Immigration Lawyers can help you through this process. Set up a one-on-one consultation today.
What Makes California a Sanctuary State?
A lot of people don’t realize that California being a sanctuary state is more than just a label. There’s an actual legal framework in place. Specifically, there’s the California Values Act (SB 54), which:
- Makes a clear distinction between local police and federal immigration enforcement.
What this means in simpler terms is that:
- Local police or sheriff’s departments can’t use their time and resources to help ICE or USCIS investigate or detain people for immigration violations.
These restrictions are meant to keep local law enforcement focused on community safety rather than federal immigration enforcement.
Still, even with these protections in place, federal immigration authorities can investigate or take action in California. That brings up a natural question: what should I do?
What Should I Do If I’m Being Investigated by Immigration in California?
Obviously, SB 54 is a huge advantage for immigrants in California. Knowing that local police can’t use their own resources against you gives you and your family a sense of security. But that doesn’t mean that federal immigration officials won’t investigate you if they think that there’s an issue. At that point, it’s about understanding what your rights are and how you can best approach the situation. Here’s what you should do:
- Take a breath and ask questions to find out what’s going on.
- Remember that you can stay silent. You don’t have to answer any questions that immigration is asking you.
- Be careful about signing paperwork. You don’t want to sign something you don’t fully understand.
- Hold on to any paperwork you’re given and make sure your documentation is up-to-date and somewhere you or your family can access it.
There’s no denying that being investigated by ICE or USCIS is scary. But no matter what the circumstances are, you still have rights. Again, though, it’s a confusing situation. That’s usually when people in your position start looking for legal help.
Should I Talk to Maison Law Immigration Lawyers If I’m Being Investigated in California?
There’s a lot of positives to California being a sanctuary state. But when you’re an immigrant, the reality is that federal officials can still open investigations into your status and make decisions that impact your future and your family. That’s when you need outside help, and that’s exactly where our team at Maison Law Immigration Lawyers can step in and guide you by:
- Reviewing your immigration history and explaining exactly where you stand.
- Requesting a bond hearing or other forms of release if detention is a possibility.
- Preparing applications, like asylum or cancellation of removal.
- Handling all the paperwork and deadlines required by immigration court.
- Representing you during hearings and communicating with the court on your behalf.
Facing an immigration investigation can be stressful, not just for you, but for everyone around you. But you don’t have to face it alone. Set up a one-on-one, confidential consultation today if you need help with an immigration investigation in California.
