Know your business’ rights in the event of an ICE raid
As ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) steps up workplace enforcement actions in 2025, business owners across New York and New Jersey need to know one thing: preparedness is protection. Whether you run a restaurant, a manufacturing shop, or a chain of retail stores, a visit from ICE can escalate quickly—from confusion to compliance violations, even criminal charges—if your team isn’t properly trained.
“An ICE raid doesn’t just affect your staff—it can paralyze your operations, damage your reputation, and expose you to federal penalties,” says Attorney Jim T, founding partner of Chilla Legal. “Our goal is to make sure your managers aren’t guessing when it matters most.”
ICE at the Door: What Happens First?
In recent months, top legal journals like the National Law Review and Bloomberg Law have flagged a notable uptick in workplace enforcement actions. These include I-9 audits, unannounced site visits, and—in some cases—raids.
The key question for any employer:
Do ICE agents have the legal authority to enter and question your employees?
Warrant Check:
ICE agents must have a judicial warrant—not just an administrative one—to enter non-public areas. This is a critical distinction. If agents present a document, your manager must know how to verify whether it’s enforceable.
Consent Matters:
Without a judicial warrant or proper consent, ICE cannot legally access private areas of your business. Any permission granted unknowingly can waive your rights.
Your Role:
Employers and managers have no obligation to answer questions, nor to provide access to employee records on the spot. A lawful response is not the same as a compliant one.
The Compliance Layer: Are You Audit-Proof?
Even without a raid, your business could be selected for an I-9 audit or face penalties for improper hiring practices. According to Forbes Legal, ICE issued over $15 million in employer fines last year alone, and that number is expected to climb in 2025.
Chilla can help you:
- Review and correct I-9 forms to meet federal standards
- Develop clear SOPs for dealing with ICE encounters
- Train your staff to respond lawfully without panic
“Too often, businesses get caught between wanting to cooperate and not knowing their rights,” explains Senior Attorney Rafael DeMarco. “We walk them through what’s legal, what’s not, and how to avoid costly missteps.”
Proactive Training = Legal Protection
We offer custom legal training for your leadership team, including:
- Identifying lawful vs. unlawful warrants
- Handling ICE communications professionally and safely
- What to say—and what not to say—during questioning
- How to document and debrief after any enforcement action
Don’t Wait for the Knock
ICE doesn’t send advance notice. If they come, you need a team that’s already ready.
Whether you’re a large employer or a small family-run operation, Chilla gives you the legal toolkit you need to protect your business and your people.
Schedule a confidential strategy session today and let us help you stay ready, compliant, and protected.