Discovering that a loved one has been detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) can be frightening and confusing. You may not know where they are being held, what their rights are, or how to reach them. In these moments, having clear information and support is critical.
Below is important information to help families locate and communicate with a loved one detained by ICE, as well as to understand the potential avenues for release or legal assistance. If you or your loved one needs an immigration attorney, contact American Immigration Law Group today.
How ICE Detention Works
When ICE detains an individual, they are typically held in an immigration detention facility operated by ICE or a local law enforcement agency under contract with ICE. Detainees can be taken into custody after an arrest, during a workplace raid, or following a transfer from a local jail.
Unlike the criminal justice system, the immigration detention process is administrative, meaning individuals are held for civil immigration violations rather than criminal charges. This can make the process challenging to navigate without the assistance of a lawyer.
Step 1: Search the ICE Detainee Locator System
The first step in finding your family member is to use the ICE Online Detainee Locator System (ODLS). This public database allows you to search for adult detainees currently in ICE custody. You can search using one of two methods:
- Alien Registration Number (A-Number): If you know your loved one’s A-number and country of birth, enter both for the most accurate results.
- Biographical Information: If you don’t have the A-number, you can search by name, country of birth, and date of birth.
Important: The ODLS only includes individuals over 18 years old who are in ICE custody. It may take 24–48 hours after arrest for a person’s information to appear in the system.
Step 2: Contact the ICE Field Office
If you can’t find your loved one in the online locator, contact the local ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Field Office nearest to where they were detained. You can find field office contact information on the ICE website.
When you call, be prepared to provide:
- Your family member’s full name and date of birth
- Their country of origin
- Any known identification numbers or case details
ERO officers can confirm whether the person is in custody, where they are being held, and who to contact for visitation or legal access.
Step 3: Contact the Detention Facility
Once you know the detention location, you can contact the facility directly. Each facility has its own rules for phone calls, mail, and visits. Most detainees can make collect calls, but it may take time for them to have access to phones.
If you plan to visit, review the facility’s visitation schedule and requirements in advance. Some centers require appointments or limit visits to immediate family and legal representatives.
Step 4: Secure Legal Representation
Immigration detainees have the right to an attorney, but unlike in criminal court, the government does not provide free legal counsel. Finding an immigration lawyer as soon as possible can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
An experienced immigration attorney can:
- Help locate your detained family member and communicate with ICE
- File requests for bond or parole to seek release from detention
- Represent your loved one in immigration court hearings
- Protect their rights during questioning or removal proceedings
At American Immigration Law Group, our attorneys can assist families in locating detained relatives and pursuing every available legal avenue for release.
Step 5: Know the Rights of a Detained Family Member
Even in detention, your loved one has certain rights under U.S. law. These include:
- The right to remain silent and not answer questions about immigration status without an attorney present.
- The right to call a lawyer or family member.
- The right to request an interpreter during hearings or interviews.
- The right to a bond hearing (in most cases) before an immigration judge.
Remind your family member not to sign any documents without fully understanding them or consulting with a lawyer.
Step 6: Check for Bond or Parole Eligibility
Depending on the circumstances of the case, your loved one may be eligible for release from detention on bond or parole.
- Bond: A monetary payment guaranteeing that the detainee will appear for future hearings.
- Parole: A discretionary release granted for humanitarian reasons or urgent medical needs.
A lawyer can file a bond motion with the immigration court or request ICE to set a reasonable bond amount. The sooner this process begins, the faster your loved one may be released while their case proceeds.
Common Challenges in Locating ICE Detainees
The process of locating and contacting someone in ICE custody can be stressful and confusing, particularly during the first few days after detention. Information is not always updated immediately, and ICE’s system can be challenging to navigate for families unfamiliar with the process.
Some of the most common challenges include:
Transfers Between Facilities
ICE often moves detainees between detention centers with little or no notice, sometimes across state lines, making it harder for families to track their loved ones.
Misspellings or Incorrect Data
Even minor errors in spelling, birth dates, or name formatting can prevent results from appearing in the ICE Detainee Locator System.
Recent Arrests Not Yet Entered into the Database
It can take 24 to 72 hours after a detention for a person’s information to appear in the online system while ICE processes their case.
Detention of Minors
Children under 18 are not listed in the ICE Locator because their cases are handled by the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) instead of ICE.
Language Barriers and Limited Communication Access
Detainees may face difficulties reaching their families or legal counsel due to limited phone access, monitored calls, or language barriers.
If you’re struggling to locate your loved one, an immigration attorney can contact ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) office or the detention facility directly to confirm custody and obtain updated information.
How to Help Your Loved One from Outside ICE Detention
Even though your family member is in ICE custody, there are several meaningful ways you can support them and stay involved in their case. Consistent communication, emotional encouragement, and practical assistance can make a significant difference in both their morale and legal outcome.
Ensuring They Have Access to an Attorney
Immigration detainees do not receive court-appointed lawyers, so helping your loved one secure legal representation is crucial. An attorney can explain their rights, prepare filings, and communicate directly with ICE and the immigration court. You can assist by contacting an immigration law firm, verifying the lawyer’s access to the detention facility, and helping your relative complete any paperwork needed to authorize representation.
Sending Funds Through the Detention Center’s Commissary System
Detainees often need money for essentials such as phone calls, hygiene items, stamps, and snacks. Most detention centers utilize approved third-party vendors or money transfer systems, such as Western Union, Access Corrections, or facility-specific commissary programs. Check the facility’s website for instructions, accepted payment methods, and deposit limits before sending funds.
Writing Letters of Support and Encouragement
Regular communication helps your family member feel connected and supported during a stressful time. Letters should avoid discussing sensitive case details but can include positive updates, reminders of support, and messages of hope. Mail may be screened by staff, so include your full return address and the detainee’s A-number on every envelope.
Gathering Significant Immigration and Identification Documents for Their Case
Collect essential materials such as birth certificates, passports, prior immigration records, proof of residence, employment documents, and evidence of community ties. Your loved one’s attorney can use these to request bond, apply for relief from removal, or support a pending visa or asylum case. Keeping documents organized and accessible can help expedite the legal process.
Staying in Regular Contact with the Facility
Many detention centers allow phone calls or scheduled visits with family members. Staying in touch not only provides emotional support but also helps you stay informed about any changes in your loved one’s case or location.
Even from outside, your efforts play a vital role. Maintaining open lines of communication, coordinating with the attorney, and offering emotional support can help alleviate the isolation of detention and enhance your loved one’s ability to navigate the immigration process with hope and confidence.
Need Help Locating a Loved One Detained by ICE? Call AILG Today
If ICE has taken your family member, you don’t have to face this alone. The process can feel overwhelming, but experienced immigration lawyers can help you locate your loved one, communicate with ICE, and explore options for release or relief from removal.
The American Immigration Law Group is here to guide you through every step of the process. Call 314-416-8000 today or contact us online to speak with an immigration attorney who can help reunite your family and protect your loved one’s rights.