In this episode we look at Immigration. Our goal was to inform our followers about the law and provide helpful information for those seeking guidance. 

Richard Link is a staff attorney with JustCause who specializes in Immigration Law. JustCause is an organization of attorneys that serves the low income population pro bono. They handle immigration cases, family law, wills & trusts, and housing/tenant issues.   JustCauseNY.org

On Jan. 30, 2026 Gov. Hochul introduced the "Local Cops, Local Crimes Act" to stop ICE from co-opting local law enforcement. Local & state police will continue to work with Federal law enforcement in criminal investigations.

The Monroe County Sheriff's Office  does not ask about immigration status when people report crimes or seek assistance, so that both victims and witnesses can feel safe when they interact with law enforcement.

Different kinds of status:

• US Citizen: you cannot be deported, you have full rights & responsibilities
• Permanent Resident (aka Green Card holders): grants permanent residency, it is a pathway to citizenship after 3-5 years, you cannot vote & you can be deported if you commit certain crimes.
• Refugee/Asylee: the person has a well-founded fear of persecution on the basis of race, religion, nationality, member of social or political group if returned to the home country, and the person is not a safety risk to the US.
• Visa: Allows temporary entry for a specific purpose and is valid for a limited period of time. Does not to lead to citizenship.

Immigration is complicated. People don't understand what ICE/CBP can/cannot do.

• If you're walking down the street and you "think" you may be stopped and asked about your status, have your papers on you at all times. DO NOT have a picture of it on your phone! Then ICE could take your phone.
• If you are at a protest, intentionally - or if you happen to come across an incident by accident, you have the right to film it. BUT DO NOT interfere with the authorities! Don't "offer proof" that you have filmed the incident - that's like offering them your phone, which they can take.
• NEVER ask someone their status. Ignorance is bliss if you are asked about someone else.
• If ICE comes to your home, UNLESS they have a JUDICIAL WARRANT SIGNED BY A JUDGE you do not need to open any doors no matter what they say. Make them slide the paper under the door or put it against a window. You are protected by the 4th Amendment.
• IF you get detained get a lawyer, you have a far better chance of success!
• To help immigrants, work with local churches & organizations who already have systems in place.

Today we have primarily focused on Immigration law because of its relevancy, but please remember that JustCause does pro bono work for low income families in regard to family law, wills & trusts, and tenant issues. 

Please email your questions about today's episode or any questions you have about real estate, or buying or selling a home to [email protected]. We will be answering these questions in our future podcast episodes.

Marcia Glenn is a licensed Associate Real Estate Broker with has worked tirelessly since 1992 for her clients, whether they are buying or selling a home. Her team of agents brings with them experience, innovation, perspective and drive to make them part of the top 10% of all REALTORS in the Rochester NY area.

Join us next time for "On the Go with the Glenn Advantage Team". Search for "On the Go with the Glenn Advantage Team wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe to our YouTube channel @glennadvantage, or follow us on Instagram and Facebook.