A week ago, Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed a controversial law — SB4 — which, as Univision recalls, gives state police the power to detain undocumented immigrants.
The SB4 law allows Texas police and judges to arrest and deport migrants without due process, even though migration is the power of the United States federal government, EFE notes.
The Spanish agency adds that the legal requirements have caused fear among migrants stranded in Ciudad Juárez, Mexico; and among people who are undocumented on American soil.
To provide clarity amid the confusion, Univision consulted two attorneys, Fernando Dubove and Raed González, with immigration experience, to inquire “what an undocumented person can do if arrested by agents in Texas.”
/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/eluniverso/67ISNF25UVFFJH5RLXNQM7HVOY.jpg)
The SB4 law makes illegal crossings from Mexico into Texas a crime. The penalties in this case can be up to six months in prison.
Texas SB4 Law: Keys to Understanding the Controversial Legislation Against Undocumented Immigrants
Who are you going to ask about your immigration status?
When asked about Univisión, they answer that “the police, which are local; sheriffs, that’s the county; DPS… they will all have the right to do that. Stop an individual from asking about his or her immigration status for any reason, if the individual does not appear to have legal status.”
/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/eluniverso/WTXLGGXP3JHU3KXB27QYH67DDM.jpg)
What should you do if you are an undocumented immigrant in Texas and are being detained by government officials?
1. Stay silent and don’t answer questions
Raeg González tells Univisión that you have a duty to identify yourself to the police (state your name and address).
But afterward, they may remain silent, especially when questioned about their immigration status.
“Everyone has the right to remain silent, you don’t have to answer anyone about your immigration status,” “and you don’t have to say anything,” he says.
He recommends asking if they are arresting you, or if you can leave, and if you have a negative answer, “shut up.” “Identify yourself, but you don’t have to answer any questions.”
Texas passes a strict and controversial law against immigrants. What does it consist of and how can it affect you?
2. Do not bring false documents
The lawyer reminds that “you are not allowed to carry false cards or documents, because that is a crime.”
“You can say your name or your address and that’s how you identify yourself, but you don’t have to talk about your nationality,” he emphasizes. Please note that it is recommended to identify only yourself and remain silent.
3. Talk to a lawyer
Can contact a lawyeran expert on immigration issues, “because Even if they have no legal status, people have rightsemphasizes González to Univisión.
When asked what to do if someone is arrested because of the SB4 law? Lawyer Fernando Dubove says via the news network: “Ask for an audience with the judge, ask to speak to a lawyer. “Do not sign your voluntary departure.”
(JO)
Source: Eluniverso
Mabel is a talented author and journalist with a passion for all things technology. As an experienced writer for the 247 News Agency, she has established a reputation for her in-depth reporting and expert analysis on the latest developments in the tech industry.
