In a rare display of compassion and courtesy, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials announced that they will suspend active enforcement of immigration regulations in shelters and during evacuation efforts associated with Hurricane Florence. While ICE officials are expected to assist with response and recovery in the states affected by this serious storm, they will not be detaining individuals or taking them into custody unless they pose a serious threat to public safety. This marks a significant shift away from the aggressive tactics used by ICE in recent months.

Trying to Save Lives

According to ICE, the decision to suspend detention of suspected undocumented immigrants was made as part of the agency’s overall efforts to save lives during the emergency. Officials stated that they wanted people to feel safe and secure in the shelters set up for hurricane victims. Additionally, by letting the public know that undocumented individuals can safely evacuate to higher ground away from the coast, ICE and other federal agencies can reduce the overall loss of life associated with Hurricane Florence and other storms.

Only a Short-Term Solution

While the brief respite from worries over detention and deportation is a welcome change for many immigrants, ICE will almost certainly return to its former patterns after the immediate emergency is over. Seeking the help of an Orlando immigration lawyer is usually a good first step toward resolving issues with visas, undocumented status and citizenship applications in our area. Your Orlando immigration lawyer can provide you with real help in resolving immigration problems with ICE and other federal agencies. This can reduce the risk of deportation and detention after the storm has ended.

If you need quality representation from an established Orlando immigration lawyer, Pozo Goldstein can deliver the right solutions for you and your family. Our team of immigration experts includes a former judge and two former prosecutors for immigration cases. This depth of relevant experience ensures that you receive the best possible guidance for your specific set of circumstances. At Pozo Goldstein, we work with families just like yours to determine the most practical solutions for obtaining green cards, establishing eligibility for permanent residency and seeking citizenship status in the United States. Call us today at 407-956-4359 to request a free in-office visit with our legal team. We look forward to the opportunity to provide you and your family with the best legal guidance in the Orlando area.