Encounters with Law Enforcement
In this page you will find more information about the different types of law enforcement agents you could encounter and the systems they operate in. Every day, people come into contact with different kinds of law enforcement on the street, at home, and in public spaces. The local police force in New York City is the New York City Police Department (NYPD). However, in 2025, the expansion of federal civil immigration enforcement nationwide has included increased activity by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and other federal agents deployed to carry out civil immigration enforcement (including U.S. Marshals Service (USMS); Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); Bureau of Prisons (BOP); Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); Federal Bureau of Investigation" (FBI); special agents from the State Department’s Diplomatic Security Service and agents from the IRS Criminal Investigation Unit (IRS-CI)). In some places, it has also included the deployment of National Guard troops.
Whether you are stopped by city police, questioned by federal agents, or approached by military personnel during an emergency deployment, it is important to know what you can do, what you are not required to do, and what officers are legally allowed to demand of you in each context so you can navigate these encounters safely.
Encounters with the New York Police Department (NYPD)
Finding Legal Representation:
To get help with a local criminal case in New York City, you can contact public defense organizations that that provide free legal representation to people who are unable to afford an attorney.
NYC Public Defense Offices:
The Legal Aid Society (212) 577-3300
The Bronx Defenders (347) 778-1266
Brooklyn Defender Services Brooklyn: (718) 254-0700;
Brooklyn Defender Services Queens: (718) 261-3047
New York County Defender Services (212) 803-5100
Neighborhood Defender Service of Harlem (212) 876-5500
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS: IMMIGRANTS AND THE CRIMINAL LEGAL SYSTEM IN NEW YORK
The content below is provided by Brooklyn Defender Services, last updated December 2025.
Be Prepared. You Have Rights.
Immigrants in New York have important rights when interacting with police and the criminal legal system. Here’s what you need to know:
If you are arrested by NYPD
Right to Remain Silent
Do not speak to police about your immigration status. Clearly state: “I am exercising my right to remain silent.”
Only give your name and address.
Do not provide your country of birth or citizenship/nationality.
Do not lie or provide incorrect information.
Say only: “I won’t answer any more questions until I have a lawyer” then stay silent.
Do not answer any questions or sign any documents without your lawyer present.
NYPD and Immigration Status
Police are not supposed to ask about your immigration status unless it is relevant to their investigation. But they will ask for identification to verify who you are.
Right to a Free Lawyer in Criminal Court
You have the right to have a lawyer to defend you in your criminal case. If you cannot afford a lawyer, one will be appointed to defend you in your criminal case.
When you are brought in front of the criminal judge (this is called arraignment), the court will determine if you qualify for a free lawyer based on your financial situation. If you do, a lawyer will be appointed to represent you.
When You Meet Your Criminal Defense Lawyer
While in jail, do not speak with anyone about your case or immigration status, except your lawyer. To make sure you are speaking with your lawyer, ask:
“Are you my lawyer?”
To see your lawyer's ID
“Is this conversation confidential?”
“How will my criminal case affect my immigration status (or ability to get status)?”
Inform your lawyer (and no one else) if you were not born in the U.S.:
A criminal case may impact the outcome of your immigration case. Your lawyer will work with you to protect your rights.
What You Need to Know About Encounters with the Police
The content below is provided by The Legal Aid Society available at https://legalaidnyc.org/get-help/arrests-policing/what-you-need-to-know-about-encounters-with-the-police/
What You Need to Know About Encounters with the Police
Police encounters can be frightening and they have the potential to escalate. The most important aspect of the encounter is your safety. Remembering to exercise your rights will help you stay in control.so stay in control and remember to exercise your rights. You have the right to be free of searches, to remain silent and to ask for your lawyer—learn about your rights so you can be empowered. If you feel your rights have been violated, you can file a complaint with the Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB) online or by calling 800-341-2272.
What should I do when I'm stopped by the police?
Being respectful, Remain calm and avoiding arguing are the most important things to remember when stopped by an officer. Keep your hands where they can be seen by the police officers and do not run. Also, it’s good to try and memorize the police officers’ names.
If you’re stopped in your car, place your hands on the steering wheel as the police approach. Show the officer your driver’s license, registration and proof of insurance upon request. In certain cases, your car can be searched without a warrant, so to protect yourself later, you should state that you do not consent to a search. It’s unlawful for an officer to arrest you for refusing to consent to a search. If you’re asked to sign a ticket, sign it. You can always fight it later. And if you are suspected of drunk driving, you will be asked to take a breath-alcohol and coordination test. If you fail or refuse to take the test, you will be arrested. Also, your license may be suspended, and your car may be impounded.
Your Rights, Your Power
The Legal Aid Society’s Community Justice Unit recently launched the Your Rights, Your Power campaign to empower New Yorkers during police encounters. It includes things to remember that can keep you safe in the moment, and ready to fight with your rights when it’s done.
What if I've been mistreated by the police?
If you are a defendant in a criminal case, you must discuss with a criminal attorney any action you might consider taking in connection with your mistreatment by the police.
There are several government agencies that review complaints against the N.Y.P.D. Anyone can file a complaint by contacting Civilian Complaint Review Board:
Civilian Complaint Review Board
40 Rector St. 2nd Floor
New York NY 10006
Phone: 212-442-8833
C.C.R.B. complaints may be filed in person, by telephone, or by mail. Complaint forms are available at all New York City police stations. The C.C.R.B. has authority to investigate and to recommend departmental action against officers engaging in excessive force, abuse of authority, discourtesy, and offensive language.
Complaints about stealing, bribe receiving or “moonlighting” by police should be referred to the N.Y.P.D. Internal Affairs Division by calling 800-PRIDE-PD, or 212-741-8401. Complaints can also be made in person at:
Internal Affairs Division
315 Hudson Street, 3rd floor
New York, NY 10013
Recurrent discriminatory practices at the precinct level should be referred to the State Attorney General, Civil Rights Bureau at 212-416-8000 or by writing to:
New York State Attorney General
Civil Rights Bureau
120 Broadway, 25th floor
New York NY 10271
It’s important to remember that if you are a criminal defendant, or if you, a friend or a relative has been seriously injured by the police, you should consult an attorney before making a complaint to any government agency. Your statement to the government agency may be used against you in your criminal case, or may hurt your chances of winning a civil case. We strongly advise against initiating a civilian complaint on your own while a criminal or civil action is pending. The officer you are complaining about will be shown your C.C.R.B. complaint against him before your case is presented in court. Both the C.C.R.B. and the I.A.D. will accept a complaint that is filed by your lawyer, and postpone taking your statement until your case is over.
How can I find a lawyer for a mistreatment case?
Both the C.C.R.B. and the I.A.D. will accept a complaint that is filed by your lawyer, and postpone taking your statement until your case is over.
The New York City Policing Roundtable 212-244-4664 can provide you with the names of a number of experienced attorneys who specialize in cases involving police abuse and civil rights violations. Other organizations that may be able to assist you are:
More Resources About the Police
Prisoners’ Legal Services of New York
New York City Policing Roundtable
Disclaimer
The information in this document has been prepared by The Legal Aid Society for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. This information is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. You should not act upon any information without retaining professional legal counsel.
ICE/Federal Immigration Enforcement
Subheading
Question Here?
Answer here
Federal Defenders:
Pre-arrest and Arrest Warrant FAQs
Federal agents want to talk to me. What should I do?
If you think you might be the subject of a federal investigation, you should contact a criminal defense attorney before speaking with law enforcement agents or their representatives. You have a right to an attorney’s advice and counsel in any conversation with law enforcement agents. Your attorney should arrange all meetings or telephone contact with them. Even if you do not have an attorney, remind law enforcement representatives that you wish to have an attorney present. If you cannot afford an attorney, you should contact the Federal Public Defenders Office at (212) 417-8700 in Manhattan or (718) 330-1200 in Brooklyn. A Federal Public Defender will help you complete a financial affidavit to determine your eligibility for appointed counsel. This affidavit will accompany your request asking the court to provide you an attorney at no cost. Even if you believe you are only a witness in a federal investigation, you still have the option and the right to consult with an attorney and to refuse to speak with law enforcement.
I was served with a subpoena to testify before a grand jury. What do I do?
It is important to determine whether you are the subject of the grand jury investigation or just a witness providing evidence. The “subject” or “target” is anybody whom the government might charge with a crime as a result of the grand jury proceedings. Check the subpoena or your letter from the U. S. Attorney to see whether that office considers you a “subject” or “target” of the investigation. If you are the “subject” or “target” -- or even if you are uncertain but suspect you might be the “subject” or “target” of the grand jury investigation -- you should contact a criminal defense attorney immediately. You should not negotiate with the prosecutors or law enforcement agents by yourself. Have your defense attorney call the U. S. Attorney’s Office to identify the government’s interest in you. A criminal defense attorney can protect important rights for you, including your right against self incrimination, and may be able to successfully negotiate immunity in exchange for your testimony.
If you cannot afford an attorney, you should contact the Federal Public Defender’s Office at (212) 417-8700 in Manhattan or (718) 330-1200 in Brooklyn. A Federal Public Defender will help you complete a financial affidavit to determine your eligibility for appointed counsel. This affidavit will accompany your request asking the court to provide you an attorney at no cost.
There is a federal warrant for my arrest in the Southern District of New York or Eastern District of New York or another district. What should I do?
If you know that you have an outstanding federal warrant, you should consider surrendering to the United States Marshal's Office. Prior to your surrender, it is a good idea to speak with an attorney. If you are located within Manhattan, the Bronx, or other parts of the Southern District of New York, call the Federal Public Defender’s Office at (212) 417-8700. If you are located in Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island or Long Island, call the Federal Public Defender in Brooklyn at (718) 330-1200. A Federal Public Defender can discuss with you your possible surrender to the United States Marshal. Choosing not to surrender can result in adverse consequences to your case and even additional criminal charges.