Attorney General Guidance:
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS: ICE Enforcement
A Guide for Immigrants, Families, and Communities

Due to the recent surge in immigration enforcement activity across Massachusetts, the Attorney General’s Office (AGO) has received a number of questions about the actions of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, the role of local police in immigration enforcement, and the rights people have when they interact with federal immigration officers.  

This guidance is meant to provide communities with information about their rights and the legal framework for ICE stops, arrests, and inquiries. It is not, however, legal advice or a formal legal opinion of the Attorney General. The AGO does not supervise or control the activities of ICE or federal prosecutors. This guidance does not address all circumstances in which residents may come into contact with ICE and the AGO cannot guarantee that ICE agents will act in a manner consistent with this guidance in any given situation. Immigrants, their families, and community members should consult with legal counsel if they need advice or representation in specific cases or circumstances.  

The AGO is committed to protecting the civil rights of all residents, regardless of immigration status.