Over the past several months, United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has seriously ramped up its efforts to detain and prosecute immigrants. California, with its huge immigrant population, hasn’t been spared. As an immigrant, this means that you and your family could face time at places like the Imperial Regional Detention Facility in Calexico. Maison Law Immigration Lawyers wants you to know that this isn’t the end of the story. We can help you understand your rights and options. Set up a consultation with our team today to learn more.
Can ICE Really Detain Me and Send Me to Imperial?
Unfortunately, ICE has full authority to detain immigrants and send them to their Processing Centers for holding. You never want to be in this situation, but very well may be transferred to the Imperial facility if:
- ICE flagged your name because of an old visa issue or removal order
- You were arrested for something else, and ICE placed a hold before you were released
- You were caught up in a raid, checkpoint, or workplace investigation
- You have a pending immigration case that hasn’t been resolved
Some people spend only a few days at Imperial. Others stay for weeks or months while ICE—and the court—decide what happens next. The system can feel slow and uncommunicative, but that’s exactly why having someone in your corner matters.
What Should I Do If I’m Already Being Held at Imperial?
First and foremost: don’t panic if you’re in Imperial. Even with being detained, you still have legal rights—and what you do in the first few days can shape what comes next. Here are a few immediate steps to keep in mind:
- Protect your rights—say as little as possible – You don’t have to answer ICE’s questions about your immigration status or where you were born. You have the right to ask for a lawyer and to remain silent. If ICE tries to enter your home, they must show a warrant signed by a judge—not just an ICE document.
- Try to remember the details – If someone witnessed the arrest, have them write down what happened. Officer names, how they identified themselves, or anything that didn’t feel right—it can all help your legal team later.
- Get help – You (or someone on your behalf) can reach out to us directly. Once we’re involved, we can begin requesting release, reviewing your case, and making sure you’re not pressured into making decisions without understanding the consequences.
- Don’t sign anything without legal advice – ICE may give you forms to sign that affect your future—including voluntary departure. Never sign anything unless our lawyers have reviewed it with you and explained what it really means.
- Make sure a trusted person has your documents – Copies of your ID, immigration papers, court dates, and other important info should be safely stored with a family member or friend who can send them to your lawyer when needed.
Obviously, taking these steps aren’t going to be possible in some situations. Still, when you’ve been detained, it’s important to do what you can to get as much information as possible so that when you go for legal help, our team will have a full picture of what you’re up against.
What Legal Options Are Available While in Detention?
Everyone’s case is different, but being in detention doesn’t automatically mean you’re out of options. Depending on your history and family situation, here are a few possible legal paths:
- Cancellation of Removal – You may be able to stop removal if you’ve lived in the U.S. for many years.
- If you’re a lawful permanent resident: you could qualify if you’ve had your green card for 5+ years, lived in the U.S. for 7+, and haven’t committed serious crimes.
- If you don’t have lawful status: you may still be eligible if you’ve been in the U.S. for over 10 years and your removal would cause extreme hardship to a U.S. citizen family member.
- Asylum – If returning to your country would put you in danger because of your religion, race, politics, or identity, asylum could be an option—even if you didn’t enter the country legally.
- Waivers – If you’re being held due to past immigration violations or criminal history, certain waivers may help clear the way—especially if those events happened long ago and you’ve had no recent legal trouble.
- Adjustment of Status – In some cases, you may qualify for a green card while still in custody—usually through a close U.S. citizen relative. If this applies to you, we can start the process while you’re still inside.
These are just a few possibilities, and none of them are automatic. But with the right help, they may give you a path forward.
Maison Law Immigration Lawyers Can Help You If You’re Being Detained by ICE at Imperial Regional Detention Facility
When you face detention by ICE, whether it’s at the Imperial Regional Detention Facility or anywhere else, it’s extremely difficult. But while it might feel hopeless, it’s not the end of the line for your immigration. With the right legal strategy and a team that knows the system, you may still have a way to stay here, protect your family, and move forward. Our team at Maison Law Immigration Lawyers can:
- Explain what rights and options you have based on your background
- File for your release and represent you at bond or custody hearings
- Keep your family updated and guide them through the process
- Handle time-sensitive forms and filings so nothing gets missed
- Stand by you in court and help you prepare every step of the way
If you or someone you care about is being held at Imperial Regional Detention Facility, get in touch with us today. We’ll help you figure out what comes next—and walk with you through it.
