Legal Recourse: What Can You Do if ICE Fails to Provide Adequate Language Services

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is legally obligated to provide language access services to detainees with limited English proficiency (LEP).?

This includes providing free interpreters and translating vital documents into the detainee's primary language. However, a recent report found that ICE routinely violates its own internal standards for providing these critical language services.

If you or a loved one has faced difficulties communicating with ICE staff due to language barriers, there are steps you can take to assert your rights and seek recourse. Here's what you need to know:

Under federal law, if you are seeking services from a government agency like ICE, you have the right to free language assistance. This includes:

• A free interpreter, either in-person or over the phone
• Free translation of important documents
• The right to refuse to use a friend or family member as an interpreter
• ICE cannot force you to provide your own interpreter or ask you to pay for the language services they provide

Where You Are Entitled to Language Access

Language access rights apply in a variety of settings when interacting with ICE and other government agencies:

• Federal courts
• State and local courts receiving federal funding
• Federal agencies like USCIS and the Social Security Administration
• State and local agencies receiving federal money
• Police departments receiving federal funding
• Hospitals receiving federal funds
• Schools receiving federal money

Any agency receiving federal financial assistance must provide meaningful access to their programs and services for LEP individuals.

If you were denied language services by ICE, you may have a claim for national origin discrimination. To file a complaint:

• Contact the Federal Coordination and Compliance Section of the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division.

Seeking Legal Assistance with Gehi & Associates

Given the complexity of language access laws and the high stakes involved in immigration proceedings, it's advisable to seek legal counsel if you've faced language barriers with ICE. Gehi & Associates, with its extensive experience in immigration law, can assist you by:

• Advising you on your rights and options
• Assisting in filing a complaint
• Representing you in any legal action against ICE
• Helping ensure you receive adequate language services going forward

Gehi & Associates Offers qualified advice on immigration law, including issues related to language access. Our team is dedicated to advocating for your rights and ensuring that language barriers do not hinder your access to justice.

Language access is a critical civil right, especially for those facing deportation proceedings. If ICE fails to provide adequate language services, detainees have legal recourse to file complaints and seek justice. With the help of an attorney from Gehi & Associates you can assert your rights, hold the agency accountable, and ensure you have a fair opportunity to communicate with ICE staff. No one should face deportation due to language barriers.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The opinions expressed are those of the author and do not reflect any official stance. While we aim for accuracy, we do not guarantee the completeness or reliability of the information. Any reliance on this information is at your own risk.

Legal outcomes vary, and laws change. Seek independent legal advice for specific concerns. We are not responsible for errors, omissions, or any actions taken based on this article. External links do not imply endorsement; we are not responsible for their content. For legal advice on immigration or asylum issues, consult a qualified attorney.