First hours after an arrest checklist
A printable from Know Your Rights. Fill it in by hand. Nothing you write is collected by this website.
First hours after an arrest checklist
For the family member or friend who is helping.
- Call the rapid response line. San Mateo County (203) 666-4472. Santa Clara County (408) 290-1144.
- Call our lawyer or a legal provider: ______________________
- Search the ICE Online Detainee Locator at locator.ice.gov/odls. Try again later if the person does not show up yet.
- Write down what happened: date, time, place, agency, badge numbers, names of witnesses.
- Gather papers for the lawyer: full name, date of birth, country of birth, A number, immigration papers, proof of years in the United States, proof of family ties.
- Pick up the children, or call the trusted adult in our family plan: ______________________
- Ask the lawyer about a bond hearing.
- Do not pay anyone who promises a fast release.
Keep this sheet with your family plan, not on social media.
From Know Your Rights. Facts checked October 21, 2026. Free information, not legal or medical advice.