From Traffic Ticket to ICE Custody: What Immigrants in Texas Need to Know
- becoolwithbob
- Apr 11
- 4 min read
If you’re an immigrant living in Texas, something as small as a traffic stop could lead to life-changing consequences. As an immigration attorney, I’ve helped families torn apart by situations that should’ve never escalated in the first place. This is one of the most urgent and heartbreaking trends we’re seeing: individuals being referred to ICE simply for minor infractions like a broken tail light or an expired registration sticker.
In this post, I want to walk you through what’s happening, why it’s happening, and most importantly—what you can do to protect yourself and your family.
The Reality: Minor Traffic Stops Are Leading to Deportation
You may think, “It’s just a ticket.” But for undocumented immigrants or those with temporary status, even a minor run-in with local law enforcement could set off a chain reaction.
Local police departments across Texas, including in places like Harris County and Montgomery County, have partnerships with federal immigration enforcement through the 287(g) program—a voluntary agreement that allows local officers to act as ICE agents.
That means your traffic stop could turn into an immigration check. And if you don’t have legal status? You could be turned over to ICE—even if you’ve lived here for years, have no criminal record, and have been working and paying taxes the entire time.
🔗 Learn more about the 287(g) Program from ICE
Real Case: A Broken Headlight Turned Into a Family Separation
Just last month, a father of three U.S. citizen children was pulled over in Houston for a broken headlight. He had no prior arrests, no DUI, and no history of violence. But because he didn’t have a valid driver’s license, he was taken into custody—and eventually transferred to an ICE detention facility outside of Houston.
His wife called us in tears. He’s been here 17 years. He’s never been in trouble. And now, he’s facing deportation proceedings.
Situations like this are happening every single day in Texas.
What Are Your Rights in These Situations?
Whether you’re documented or undocumented, you still have rights.
Here are a few things you should know:
You have the right to remain silent. You are not required to answer questions about your immigration status.
You do not have to sign anything without talking to a lawyer.
You can request to speak to an attorney. Even in detention.
If ICE or police approach you, stay calm. Do not run. And do not present false documents—that can hurt your case later on.
🔗 The ACLU’s Know Your Rights guide is an excellent resource that’s easy to keep on hand.
Legal Options After ICE Detention
If you or someone you love has been detained after a traffic stop, it’s not the end of the road. Here are some legal options that may apply:
1. Cancellation of Removal
If you’ve lived in the U.S. for at least 10 years, can demonstrate good moral character, and show that your removal would cause extreme hardship to a U.S. citizen spouse or child, you may be eligible to cancel removal proceedings and apply for a green card.
🔗 Learn more about cancellation of removal on USCIS.gov
2. Adjustment of Status
If you’re married to a U.S. citizen or have another eligible family member, you might qualify to adjust your status—even if you’re already in deportation proceedings.
3. Prosecutorial Discretion
We can request that ICE drop or close your case based on your positive history, family ties, or lack of criminal record.
🔗 The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) has a breakdown on how this option works.
Why This Is Happening More in Texas
Texas has one of the highest rates of cooperation between local law enforcement and ICE. Combine that with aggressive immigration enforcement priorities and it creates a perfect storm—especially for long-time residents who have built their lives here.
If this feels unfair, it’s because it is.
Our office is committed to standing up against these policies. We believe no one should be deported over a speeding ticket. We believe families belong together. And we believe due process should apply to everyone—not just U.S. citizens.
What You Can Do Right Now
If you or a loved one has been detained by ICE, contact an immigration attorney immediately.
Do not sign any documents until your lawyer has reviewed them.
Know your rights—and share them with your family.
📞 If you need help, reach out to us. We’re based in Houston, and we’re ready to help.
We Fight for Immigrant Families in Texas
The immigration system is complex and often unfair—but you don’t have to face it alone.
Whether you’ve been detained, received a Notice to Appear in court, or are simply worried about what might happen if you get pulled over, we’re here to help. We will fight for your right to stay with your family, work in peace, and build the life you came here to build.
Our promise: to treat your case with the urgency, compassion, and expertise it deserves.
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