Governor Cuomo signed the “Protect our Courts” Act

Yesterday, New York State Governor Cuomo signed the “Protect our Courts” Act. This important legislation prohibits ICE from arresting any defendants, family members and witnesses unless they present a warrant signed by a Judge. (ICE usually presents administrative warrants that are signed by an ICE supervisor. They will not be acceptable. Similarly, although people have to open the door when ICE comes to your house with a warrant signed by a Judge, persons may refuse opening the door when an administrative warrant signed by an ICE supervisor is presented.) This includes when persons are going to and from courts, as well. Thus, people should not fear going to New York State courts simply because they lack immigration status or have an order of removal from the Immigration Court.