What to Do If a Loved One Is Detained by ICE — 2026 Guide

Learning that a loved one has been detained by ICE is frightening. But there are concrete steps you can take right now to help them. This guide walks you through the process of finding, communicating with, and getting legal help for someone in ICE detention.

Step 1: Confirm They Are in ICE Custody

Use the ICE Online Detainee Locator System at locator.ice.gov. You will need:

• The person's full legal name
• Date of birth
• Country of origin
• Their A-Number (Alien Registration Number), if known

If the locator does not show results, it may take 24-72 hours after arrest for someone to appear in the system. You can also call the ICE detention reporting line at 1-888-351-4024.

Important: The detainee locator only shows people in ICE custody. If they were arrested by local police and turned over to ICE, there may be a delay before they appear.

Step 2: Find Out Where They Are Being Held

Once you confirm ICE custody, the locator will show the detention facility. Write down:

• The facility name and address
• The facility phone number
• Their A-Number (shown in the locator results)

You can find facility contact information and visitation rules at the ICE Detention Facilities page.

Step 3: Contact an Immigration Attorney Immediately

People in ICE detention have the right to an attorney, but unlike criminal cases, the government does not provide one for free. Finding legal representation quickly is critical because:

• Bond hearings happen fast — sometimes within days
• An attorney can request a bond hearing to get your loved one released while their case proceeds
• Signing voluntary departure papers (which ICE may pressure detainees to sign) can waive important rights

Where to find legal help:

• National Immigration Legal Services Directory — immigrationadvocates.org (search by state for free/low-cost attorneys)
• CLINIC Legal Directory — cliniclegal.org/directory
• American Immigration Lawyers Association — ailalawyer.com

Step 4: Communicate With Your Loved One

Detained individuals can usually make phone calls, but the process varies by facility:

• Most facilities use a paid phone system. You may need to set up an account to receive calls.
• Contact the facility directly to learn their phone and visitation policies.
• You can send mail to the detention facility — include their full name and A-Number on the envelope.
• Some facilities allow video visitation — check with the specific facility.

Step 5: Gather Important Documents

Collect the following to help their legal case:

• Any immigration documents (visa, work permit, green card application receipts)
• Proof of time in the US (utility bills, lease agreements, tax returns)
• Proof of family ties (marriage certificates, children's birth certificates)
• Character reference letters from employers, community members, or religious leaders
• Medical records if they have health conditions requiring treatment

Step 6: Attend Their Hearing

Immigration court hearings are usually open to the public. Having family present shows the judge that the person has community ties and support, which can help with bond decisions.

Stay Informed With SpotICE

Monitor ICE activity in your community with SpotICE. Our real-time map shows ICE checkpoints and raids reported by community members, so you can stay aware and keep your family safe.