Vermont Business Magazine Attorney General Charity Clark today released guidance intended to help Vermont’s immigrant and noncitizen communities understand their rights during encounters with immigration enforcement officers. The guide was designed in response to the many Vermonters who have expressed great concern about recent changes in federal immigration enforcement. It seeks to answer questions about (1) the power of the federal government, (2) the role, or lack thereof, state or local law enforcement play in civil immigration enforcement, and (3) the rights Vermonters can exercise if they encounter immigration enforcement officers.
Importantly, the “Know Your Rights” guide outlines basic rights when encountering immigration officials, whether at home or in public spaces, and points to resources available in Vermont communities. The guide also addresses questions raised by the general public, such as whether or when immigration officers need a warrant to make an arrest or search private spaces.
“I know many in our communities are feeling anxious or scared right now,” Attorney General Clark said. “My office is providing this guide to give folks who may come in contact with immigration enforcement officers the tools they need to advocate for themselves and their loved ones.”
While the federal government has the authority to regulate immigration, it must still honor the constitutional rights afforded to everyone in this country, regardless of their citizenship or immigration status. As outlined in the guide, those basic rights include, among others:
- the right to remain silent;
- the right to request an interpreter and translated documents;
- the right not to consent to an officer searching you or your property without a judicial warrant;
- the right to ask officials to identify themselves;
- the right to request and review any court order or warrant; and
- the right to talk to a lawyer if you are arrested or placed in custody.
The guide published today is available in English here. A Spanish language version of the guidance will be made available here in the coming days. Questions about the guide may be directed to the Attorney General’s Civil Rights Unit by calling 802-828-3657 or emailing [email protected].
While the Attorney General’s Office does not practice immigration law, our experts in constitutional law have put together this guide. If you have specific questions about your immigration status, you should speak to a lawyer for advice. Resources for free or reduced cost legal help in Vermont are included in the guide.
6.11.2025. MONTPELIER, Vt. – Attorney General
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