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Sobampo

Immigration News

Our attorneys at Sobampo Law Firm have prepared this information for your reference.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Trump Administration has introduced numerous policies, proposals, and executive orders, yet it remains uncertain how these measures will be implemented. Some actions could be temporarily blocked or delayed through the courts.

We are closely monitoring these developments and will provide updates on our website as new information becomes available.

It is generally anticipated that this administration may increase detentions and expedite removals compared to prior administrations. Understanding your rights and preparing in advance is essential. Make sure you have copies of all immigration documents, receipts for pending cases, and proof of residence in the U.S. for relevant periods. For a detailed list of important documents, refer to the “Documents to Have on Hand” section.

Every case is unique, but in most situations, we advise eligible individuals to proceed with filing. If policies under the Trump Administration affect people with your circumstances, you may already face heightened risk. Submitting an application or maintaining an active case can provide protections and put undocumented individuals in a more secure position than having no case in progress at all.

Having an active immigration case is frequently taken into account by officials when determining whether to detain or deport an individual. It may also serve as grounds to request a temporary halt to removal. However, it does not guarantee complete immunity from enforcement actions.

The outcome varies depending on your specific case and situation. Being outside the United States may affect how your case moves forward. If you are removed, contact us immediately so we can evaluate your individual circumstances and outline the possible options available to you.

Currently, our firm does not take cases related to detention or deportation proceedings. We are, however, developing the capacity to provide these services in the future. If you find yourself in this situation, please contact us so we can discuss the support options available to you.

Possessing a work permit does not guarantee immunity from detention or deportation. In some situations, having an official government-issued ID may help manage encounters with law enforcement. If possible, we suggest using your EAD to obtain a state driver’s license or identification card, which can sometimes ease these interactions.

Additionally, certain legal determinations tied to your work authorization can provide protection from removal. For instance, prima facie findings in VAWA cases, bona fide letters in T-visa or U-visa cases, and VAWA approvals may, in specific situations, act as deferred action or temporary stays of removal. If you have any of these documents, it is important to carry them with you at all times.

On April 2, 2025, the IRS entered into an arrangement to provide ICE with selected tax data concerning undocumented immigrants’ filings. According to the agreement, ICE would use this information to identify individuals who may have final removal orders or are involved in criminal investigations. The data that can potentially be shared includes names, addresses, and the periods covered by tax filings. Legal challenges to this policy are currently underway, and the exchange of information has not yet taken place. Our attorneys are closely monitoring the situation and will communicate updates as they become available.

The attorney emphasizes that we cannot provide individualized tax guidance, as we are not tax specialists. Generally, anyone working in the U.S. may be legally required to file taxes, and failing to do so could lead to penalties. Clients are encouraged to seek advice from a certified tax professional or tax attorney to determine their obligations. Decisions about filing taxes should be made independently, ideally with expert consultation.

From an immigration perspective, timely and accurate tax filings can demonstrate compliance with U.S. laws and good moral character, which may benefit your case. It is important, however, never to submit false or fraudulent information. Under the proposed IRS–ICE agreement, if it is implemented, certain tax information could potentially be shared with ICE, particularly for individuals with final removal orders or criminal issues. The extent of this risk is currently uncertain, but our attorneys are closely monitoring developments and will provide updates as new guidance becomes available.

Current information suggests that ICE plans to request tax records from the IRS primarily to target individuals facing criminal charges or those with final removal orders. There is no indication that this data will be used to track all undocumented immigrants nationwide, and our attorney does not expect ICE to apply it in such a broad manner. Even for those with criminal records or final removal orders, it appears the use of this information will be selective rather than widespread. This strategy may largely be intended to create fear and pressure immigrants into leaving the country.

Maintaining an active USCIS application could offer some level of protection against removal. Our attorneys are closely monitoring these developments and will provide guidance as new information becomes available.

There have been recent instances where individuals have received calls or visits at home or work, requesting details about their immigration case or asking for personal information such as addresses. These contacts could be from fraudsters or, in some cases, legitimate government officials. Although reports are still limited, it is important to be prepared. You are entitled to have your attorney present whenever questions arise regarding your immigration status. If someone reaches out to you, we strongly recommend stating that you are not comfortable providing any information without your lawyer present. You should notify our office immediately if this occurs.

The most important step is to understand your legal rights and know the proper actions to take if you are ever arrested or taken into custody. For guidance, see our FAQ: “What should I do if I get arrested?”

Additionally, always keep accessible copies of your immigration documents, proof of any pending applications, and evidence demonstrating that you have resided in the U.S. for at least two years, if applicable.

Examples of supporting documentation include:

  • Bank or financial statements

  • Phone bills or call logs

  • Vehicle insurance papers

  • Lease or rental agreements

  • State-issued licenses

Failure to show proof of continuous U.S. residence for at least two years during an ICE stop could result in rapid deportation and loss of the opportunity to present your case before a judge.

It is also wise to create a family contingency plan in case of detention or removal. Resources such as the Immigrant Legal Resource Center’s Step-by-Step Family Preparedness Plan can help families prepare for emergencies related to immigration.

If taken into custody, you are entitled to remain silent and are not required to disclose your immigration or citizenship status to law enforcement, ICE officers, or other authorities. Anything you say may be used against you in immigration proceedings.

You also have the right to consult with an attorney or contact your consulate. Request this immediately, as detention procedures can progress quickly. While our firm is working on providing direct support for these situations, this service is not currently available.

If you possess valid immigration documents, present them when requested. Refer to the documents section for guidance.

Additionally, contact family or friends as soon as possible to inform them of your situation, and keep essential phone numbers memorized for emergencies.

Keep composed and avoid any sudden movements, arguing, or resisting the officer. Place your hands where they are visible and inform the officer if you need to reach for your wallet or glove compartment to access documents.

If you don’t understand instructions, say clearly, “No hablo inglés.”

Present any valid immigration papers or a driver’s license when requested.

If you lack lawful documentation, you have the right to remain silent and are not required to answer questions about your immigration or citizenship status. Anything you say may be used in immigration proceedings later. If arrested, request to speak with a criminal lawyer immediately.

What happens at a checkpoint—and whether the driver could face consequences—can vary depending on the type of checkpoint and the state, so we cannot provide a precise answer under criminal law.

In general, remain calm, respectful, and aware of your rights. You are not required to discuss your immigration or citizenship status with law enforcement or immigration officers, and anything you say could be used in immigration proceedings.

Always carry any legal documents you have, such as a work permit or driver’s license. If you have a pending case or approvals, keep copies of receipts and documents with you, including on your phone. Evidence of residing in the U.S. for over two years should also be on hand.

If you are detained or arrested, you have the right to consult an attorney first and are not obligated to sign or hand over any paperwork without legal advice.

 
 

You are not required to open your door—make sure your children understand this as well. Stay inside and do not step out. You can download and print cards outlining your rights for quick reference.

Request to see a judge-signed warrant; have them slide it under the door. Many ICE forms are not actual warrants—they are signed by ICE officers and do not permit entry without your consent.

If no valid warrant is presented, calmly state that you do not wish to speak at this time.

Even with a proper warrant, remain composed. You retain the right to remain silent and are not obligated to discuss your immigration or citizenship status with authorities.

You may request to speak with a lawyer before signing or handing over any documents.

Keep your composure and avoid attracting attention. ICE officers cannot enter staff-only zones without either a valid warrant or authorization from your employer.

If they approach you or ask questions and you lack lawful immigration papers, remember: you have the right to remain silent. You are not required to discuss your immigration or citizenship status with law enforcement or immigration agents, and anything you say can be used against you in immigration proceedings.

If you possess valid documents, like a work permit, keep them on hand. For pending cases or approvals, carry copies of receipts and supporting documents, both physically and digitally, to demonstrate your authorization to work.

If you are taken into custody, keep your composure and do not attempt to flee, argue, or physically resist law enforcement. Be aware of your legal protections. If you carry a “Know Your Rights” card, you may present it to the officer. You are entitled to remain silent and should avoid answering questions or signing any documents until you have spoken with a lawyer.

It is important that a criminal defense attorney represent you in the criminal case. Inform that attorney that you also have an immigration matter with Lisinski Law and request that they provide us with a written authorization, signed by you, so we may communicate with them regarding your case.

Absolutely—notify us as soon as possible. Call our office and request to speak with a trained team member. If the situation involves criminal charges, your priority should be contacting a criminal defense lawyer.

Please note that we do not practice criminal law and cannot represent you in matters related to an arrest. However, it is important that we are informed, as an arrest may impact your immigration case. Once we understand the situation, we can assess whether there are any immigration-related options or support we may be able to provide.

In the past, we have had many clients who have attended ICE check-ins and got to go home. However, it may work differently in the Trump administration, and we are watching this issue closely. Please give us a call if you receive an ICE check-in letter.

You should understand that attending an ICE check-in is legally required, and we cannot tell you not to go. We do want to make sure you understand the risks of whether you choose to go or not to go.

If you go to an ICE check-in, if you have receipts proving that you have a pending immigration case, make sure to take those with you.

If you were issued a deportation order at any point in the past, reporting to an ICE appointment could expose you to enforcement action. We strongly encourage you to contact us right away so we can review your situation and determine whether you may be eligible to request a temporary halt to removal before your check-in. If available, this option would involve a separate agreement and additional cost. A request for a stay of removal asks immigration authorities to postpone enforcement based on factors such as an active humanitarian application and a demonstrated record of positive character.

Additionally, if returning to your country of origin would place you in danger, it is critical to clearly state this to the immigration officer if you are detained or face imminent removal.

If you do not have a prior deportation order but have lived in the United States for fewer than two years, immigration authorities may attempt to place you into a fast-track removal process known as expedited removal. We strongly recommend contacting our office so we can review your situation and determine whether you may qualify to request temporary protection from removal before attending your check-in. If this option is available, it would require a separate agreement and additional fee. A request for a stay of removal asks the government to pause deportation based on factors such as an active humanitarian application and evidence of good moral character.

In addition, if returning to your country of origin would put you in danger, it is extremely important to clearly communicate this fear to the immigration officer if you are detained or face removal proceedings.

If you have no prior removal history or orders and have resided in the U.S. for more than two years, it’s crucial to carry evidence verifying your length of stay. Providing this documentation generally reduces the risk of deportation when attending, though there remains a possibility of being held in custody while your immigration case is processed.

If you do not go, immigration could go to your home or workplace and pick you up. The consequences of not attending could make it worse for you as you’d failed to appear and would hurt your chances of getting a stay of removal approved and could affect other immigration options.

It’s important to plan ahead for this possibility. The Immigrant Legal Resources Center offers a detailed Family Preparedness Guide that helps families prepare for immigration emergencies, including arranging childcare. For specific guidance on making sure your child is cared for if you are deported, consult a family law attorney licensed in your state.

It is unclear where ICE may conduct enforcement actions. The Trump administration has stated that immigration authorities are no longer restricted from making arrests at schools, churches, or healthcare facilities. Their focus, according to the announcement, is on locating individuals with criminal records, not targeting children.

We recognize that these times are frightening, and there is still uncertainty about the actions the Trump administration may take, as well as who and where they may target. We are closely monitoring developments and will update our guidance as new information becomes available.

It’s important to understand that being in public without proper documentation always carries some risk. Announcements from the administration indicate heightened attention on individuals with prior removal orders, recent entrants to the country, and those living in sanctuary cities or near border areas. If you fit any of these categories, your exposure may be greater.

Deciding whether to go out is a personal choice—you must assess the risks and determine what activities you feel safe continuing. Our goal is to provide you with enough information so you can make an informed decision.

If you opt to attend work, school, or other public spaces, carry proof showing your time in the U.S. (if over two years), any pending or approved immigration cases, and any official immigration approvals you have received. Make sure you know your rights in the event of an interaction with law enforcement.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Be aware that an active removal order increases the likelihood of deportation if immigration takes action, but it doesn’t automatically mean you will be targeted right away.

Given the potential risk, it’s important to prepare in advance:

  1. File a third-party authorization with our office so we can communicate with a trusted family member or friend if you are detained. Your family should contact us immediately, as removal can occur rapidly.

  2. Create a family plan for what to do in case of detention or deportation.

  3. Keep all immigration documents and approvals with you at all times.

  4. Communicate any credible fear of returning to your home country to immigration officials if you are arrested or detained.

Preparation can help protect you and your family if enforcement actions occur.

 
 

Based on what we know, you are likely not a priority for the Trump administration and may avoid encounters with immigration or law enforcement. However, there is always some risk.

If you’ve been in the U.S. less than two years, you could face expedited removal, but stating a credible fear of returning to your home country may allow you to pursue asylum before removal.

If you’ve been in the U.S. for two years or more, carry proof of your stay. You still have legal rights, including the ability to request a hearing before a judge, which can take time. Immigration might try to detain you during this process, so contact an immigration attorney experienced in bond proceedings to explore release options.

We advise against traveling right now until we have a clearer picture of how the current administration will handle travel permits. In the previous Trump administration, travel permits were generally honored, and there are no clear indications yet that this will change. To be cautious, it’s best to wait a few months into the new administration before planning any trips. This allows time to observe any issues with re-entry or changes in travel policies. Stay updated through our social media and travel guidance pages. If you must travel for a family emergency, understand that risks remain, and follow the specific guidelines for T-Visa or VAWA cases.

Congress recently approved the Laken Riley Act. While federal authorities could previously detain undocumented immigrants involved in removal proceedings or criminal matters, this new law mandates detention for anyone accused of theft, even for minor incidents like shoplifting, and eliminates the possibility of posting bond in these cases.

Legal challenges are anticipated, as the law may be ruled unconstitutional. How it will be enforced remains uncertain, and we will keep tracking developments closely.

Birthright citizenship, established by the 14th Amendment, grants automatic U.S. citizenship to anyone born within the country’s borders.

Although President Trump issued an executive order seeking to end this automatic status, a federal court has temporarily blocked its enforcement. Children already born in the U.S. remain unaffected.

We are monitoring the situation closely for any updates.

Expedited removal is a fast-track process that lets immigration authorities deport undocumented individuals without a formal hearing. Originally, it applied only to people who had just crossed the border.

Under updated regulations, this procedure can now affect anyone in the U.S. who cannot prove they have been in the country for over two years.

It’s crucial to carry proof of your U.S. residence, such as bank statements, phone bills, car insurance papers, lease agreements, or IDs issued more than two years ago. Without this documentation, you could face deportation within hours and lose the opportunity for a judge to review your case.

If you fear returning to your home country, make sure to inform immigration officers, as you might qualify to pursue asylum before any removal occurs.

Currently, it is unclear whether or when the Trump administration might end the DACA program. If DACA were to be terminated, the impact on your legal status and work authorization would depend on the official directives and how the government carries out the changes.

Any attempt to end DACA is likely to face court challenges.

The attorney says that she thinks there is a low risk of that happening. We have seen scattered stories of this happening in the news, so we cannot say there is zero risk, but we have not heard of examples of it happening regularly or to our humanitarian clients. The attorney says she does know that not going to your interview or biometrics appointment has a very high risk of causing your case to be denied or delayed, and her strong recommendation is that you go to your appointment as scheduled to keep your case moving along, because your case is a form of protection especially if the case is approved and you obtain your documents. We are continuing to watch this situation closely, and if anything changes, we will let our clients know.

The attorney believes that the chance of receiving a Notice to Appear (NTA) after a denied application is relatively low. While President Trump has authorized the issuance of NTAs in such cases, a similar directive during his previous term did not result in routine NTAs following denials. Current evidence suggests this pattern is unlikely to change, though the situation will continue to be monitored. Since immigration cases can take years, a different administration may be in office when your case reaches a decision. Therefore, the attorney advises moving forward with your application, as having a pending case offers greater protection than having none.

Trump’s administration has indicated a focus on individuals with criminal records or prior deportation orders, but widespread NTA issuance has not been observed. Previously, NTAs were issued inconsistently, often tied to serious crimes or past removal orders. Even with these risks in mind, the attorney concludes that pursuing your immigration case remains advantageous.

 
 

A Notice to Appear (NTA) is an official document informing you that you must appear before an immigration judge to begin removal proceedings. Receiving an NTA does not automatically mean you will be deported, but it does trigger the start of the legal process. Even once proceedings begin, you have the right to legal representation, and cases can often take years to resolve, making experienced guidance crucial. If you are issued an NTA, it’s important to act promptly and contact us to start building your defense. As attorneys specializing in removal defense, we can explore options such as asylum, cancellation of removal, or termination of proceedings. Ignoring an NTA or failing to attend court can result in a deportation order being issued automatically. You do not have to face this process alone—we are here to advocate for your right to remain in the United States.

There are indications that ICE is seeking to obtain tax information from the IRS about undocumented individuals. It remains uncertain what specific data immigration can access or how it might be used. Legal challenges are likely, given strict laws on tax confidentiality. We are monitoring the situation and will provide updates as it evolves. Currently, no formal agreement exists, and there is no immediate risk to individuals, but any changes will be communicated promptly.

President Trump has signed an Executive Order requiring immigrants who remain in the U.S. without authorization for 30 days or more to complete a registration process. Many immigration advocacy groups oppose this rule, and legal challenges are expected, which we are monitoring closely. At this time, we are not instructing clients on whether to register or not—that choice is entirely up to each individual. We can, however, explain the potential consequences of either decision.

Registering involves submitting a government form with personal details such as your name, address, immigration history, and criminal background. Some fear this information could be used by authorities to locate individuals for detention or deportation.

Failing to register may carry civil or criminal penalties, but we are not criminal law experts and cannot provide guidance on legal consequences. Current analysis suggests penalties would likely require proof that a person knowingly ignored the registration requirement.

The government currently provides an electronic registration option using Form G-325R. However, certain individuals are already considered “registered,” including:

  • Lawful permanent residents (green card holders)

  • Those admitted on humanitarian parole

  • Individuals issued Form I-94 or I-94W at entry

  • Visa holders

  • Persons currently or previously in removal proceedings

  • Anyone who has held a work permit

  • Individuals who applied for a green card (I-485), even if denied

  • Border Crossing Card holders

If you qualify for a case with our firm and we file it on your behalf, that submission fulfills registration requirements and also provides the added protection of having an active immigration application. Examples include filing a VAWA case (which may involve an I-485) or a T-visa case (which includes a work permit application). Be aware that you may not be considered fully registered while your paperwork is being prepared or pending, but shortly after submission, you will be recognized as registered and receive greater protection against detention or removal.

Here’s a rephrased version that is very different but keeps the meaning:

Although assisting with the official government registration form is outside our expertise, one way to satisfy the registration requirement is by working with us to file a qualifying immigration case. This approach allows you to meet registration criteria while also securing the benefits of having a case pending. Keep in mind that you may not be officially considered registered while your application or work permit is still being processed.

If you prefer to register directly with the government on your own, guidance is available at https://www.uscis.gov/alienregistration.

Sobampo Law does not currently provide services for online registration.

If prior government interactions already classify you as “registered,” keep a relevant document with you to verify your registration status:

Examples of documents you can use include a green card, I-551 Permanent Resident Card, I-765 Employment Authorization, I-862 Notice to Appear, I-94 Arrival/Departure Record, or an I-485 Application for Permanent Residency.

 

This material is provided for educational purposes and does not replace professional legal guidance. No attorney-client relationship is created by reviewing or using it.