Know Your Rights
In accordance with SB 54, Compton College is committed to providing current information
regarding your rights under state and federal immigration laws. Below, you will find
essential resources and guidance to help you understand and exercise your rights.
Attorney General's Office Model Policy
The "Attorney General's Office Model Policy" refers to a set of guidelines created
by the California Attorney General's Office, based on
Senate Bill 54 (SB 54), also known as the "California Values Act." This policy limits the extent to which local law enforcement can cooperate with federal
immigration authorities, essentially creating "safe spaces" like schools, hospitals,
and courthouses where immigration status cannot be inquired about or used as a basis
for detention by local police. You can review the model policy
here.
Relevant Guidance
Know Your Rights
- Right to Education: Under AB 540, eligible undocumented students can pay in-state tuition at public colleges
and universities in California.
- Protection from Discrimination: You are protected from discrimination based on your immigration status in public
services and education.
- Access to Legal Resources: If you need legal assistance, you can find resources through organizations such as
the Immigrant Legal Resource Center.
What to Expect if Stopped by ICE as an Undocumented Person in the U.S.
- Rights When Interacting with ICE
- Right to Remain Silent: You do not have to answer questions about your immigration status. You have the
right to remain silent, and it's often recommended that you exercise that right.
- Right to Ask for a Lawyer: You have the right to request an attorney, but you do not have the right to have
a public defender provided for you in immigration proceedings. However, you can hire
a private attorney or reach out to a nonprofit organization for legal help.
- Right to a Hearing: If ICE detains you, you are entitled to a hearing before an immigration judge, where
you can contest your removal and seek relief such as asylum, cancellation of removal,
or other forms of relief depending on your case.
- Right to Be Informed of Your Rights: ICE is required to inform you of your rights in a language you understand. If you
are detained, they must inform you of why you are being detained and the charges against
you.
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- What Happens if You Are Detained
- Detention: ICE may detain you if you are undocumented or if you are found to be in violation
of immigration laws. They may place you in an immigration detention center or hold
you in a local jail if there are no available immigration facilities nearby.
- Bond: In some cases, you may be eligible for bond, meaning you could pay a fee to be released
from detention while your case is being processed. Not everyone is eligible for bond,
particularly if they have criminal convictions or pose a flight risk.
- Deportation Proceedings: If ICE moves forward with deportation, you will go through an immigration court
process where you can present your case. Depending on your circumstances, you may
have legal options to avoid deportation, such as applying for asylum, Temporary Protected
Status (TPS), or other forms of relief.
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- What Should You Do if Stopped by ICE?
- Do Not Resist or Flee: It is important not to resist or attempt to flee. Doing so can lead to further charges.
- Ask if You Are Free to Leave: If ICE officers stop you in a public place, you have the right to ask if you are
free to go. If they say "yes," you can leave.
- Ask for Identification: You have the right to ask for the officers' identification and the reason for their
stop or detention.
- Keep Calm: Interactions with ICE can be stressful, but it’s important to stay calm, respectful,
and aware of your rights.
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- Legal Assistance
- Immigration Attorneys: It’s always advisable to consult with an immigration attorney who can provide guidance
specific to your situation.
- Nonprofit Organizations: There are many organizations that assist undocumented immigrants with legal representation,
resources, and support.
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- Family and Community Support
- Know Your Rights: It’s helpful for you and your family or loved ones to know your rights ahead of
time and have a plan in place in case of arrest or detention.
- Emergency Plan: You may want to have a list of contacts and a plan for what happens if you are detained
(such as a lawyer, family members, or community organizations).
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For more information or assistance, please contact the following offices:
- For students, please contact Associate Registrar, Brian Dean, in Admissions & Records
located on the first floor of the Student Services Building, or send an email to bdean1@compton.edu.
- For employees, please contact Human Resources Representative, Monica Dixon, in the
HR Office located in C-38, or send an email to monicadixon1@compton.edu.
