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Unexpected interactions with law enforcement or immigration authorities can be stressful and confusing. Being prepared can make a meaningful difference for you and your family.

Bienvenidos can help you understand these steps, prepare calls, and identify who to contact.

The Be Prepared Campaign was created to provide practical tools, reliable information, and trusted resources so that community members can feel more confident navigating difficult situations.

This page brings together materials designed to help individuals and families:

• Reduce the risk of unnecessary detention
• Understand their rights during interactions with authorities
• Prepare important documents and plans in advance
• Support loved ones if someone is detained
• Access trusted resources locally, nationally, and internationally

Preparation is not about fear. It is about knowledge, organization, and community support.

We encourage families to review these materials together, keep important information accessible, and share resources with those who may need them.

Drive Responsibly and Know the Laws

Driving

Preparation and Prevention

 There are several reasons why a person may be stopped while driving or in public spaces. Knowing them can help you avoid legal problems.

Driving

  • Speeding
  • School zones. Laws are stricter in these areas and apply at all times, even when school is not in session.
  • Running a red light or a stop sign
  • Not wearing a seatbelt. Seatbelts are required for everyone, both in the front and back seats.
  • Using a cellphone while driving (according to state law)
  • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI)
  • Broken lights or not having headlights on at night

Condition of your vehicle

  • Loose or damaged parts
  • Broken windows
  • Cracked windshield
  • Large or unsecured loads in the back of the vehicle
  • Expired plates or no current registration
  • Not having required vehicle insurance
  • Reckless driving
  • Illegal window tint (depending on the state)
  • Not using turn signals when changing lanes or turning
  • Very loud exhaust or a vehicle in poor condition
  • Using an international driver’s license after 180 days in the country

 

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DUI

Driving Under The Influence

 What is a DUI?

It occurs when a person operates a vehicle:

  • With a blood alcohol level above the legal limit (generally 0.08% for adults over 21).
  • While under the influence of illegal drugs, marijuana (depending on the state), or even prescription medications that impair the ability to drive.

What happens if you receive a DUI?

The consequences can be serious and vary by state, but commonly include:

  • Immediate arrest
  • High fines (hundreds or thousands of dollars)
  • Driver’s license suspension for months or years
  • Mandatory alcohol or drug education classes
  • Community service
  • Probation
  • Possible jail time, especially for repeat offenses or if an accident occurred
  • A significant increase in the cost of car insurance

DUI Arrests

If you are arrested for a DUI:

  • You may be taken to jail (for example, to the Gallatin County Detention Center).
  • Your fingerprints may be taken and entered into federal databases.

⚠️ U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) may be notified.

  • ICE may place a “hold” (detainer) requesting that the jail keep the person in custody for up to 48 hours after release eligibility.
  • ICE may take custody of the person and begin immigration proceedings, which could include deportation.

Know and Follow the Law

Common Reasons for Arrest

There are certain crimes and behaviors that can lead to arrest. Understanding them can help you avoid serious legal consequences.

Criminal Arrests

  • DUI (driving under the influence), especially if repeated or involving injuries
  • Domestic violence
  • Assault or causing injury to another person
  • Drug-related offenses (possession, distribution, or trafficking)
  • Theft or burglary
  • Weapons offenses
  • Abuse or crimes against minors
  • Drinking alcohol under the age of 21
  • Providing false information or fake documents to authorities

Arrests in Public Spaces

  • Public intoxication (being drunk and causing a disturbance)
  • Fighting or disorderly conduct
  • Assault or threats against another person
  • Carrying a weapon illegally
  • Drug possession
  • Damage to public or private property (vandalism)
  • Shoplifting
  • Domestic violence in public
  • Resisting arrest
  • Driving under the influence (DUI)
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Learn More

Avoiding Detention — Preparation and Prevention

 Many detentions occur during routine interactions such as traffic stops or identification checks. Taking small steps in advance can help reduce risk and ensure you are prepared if you are stopped. 

See Guide
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BE PREPARED: WHAT TO DO AFTER A LOVED ONE IS DETAINED

This is a step-by-step guide on how to look up a loved one who may have been detained in Montana. It includes jail contact information, simple scripts you can use when calling, and guidance to help you track where someone may be.

This is a working guide based on the information currently available. We understand that this situation can feel stressful, overwhelming, and confusing. It is not always easy to get clear answers right away, and sometimes it may take a few days to locate a loved one or receive updates.

Please remember that you are not alone during this process. If you need help understanding these steps or would like support while trying to locate someone, Bienvenidos is here to help. Please reach out to us if you have questions or need assistance.



Read Now

Other Resources to

Support a Detained Family Member

Embassies and Consulates Contact Guide

 Embassies and consulates may be able to help with communication, documentation, and connecting individuals with resources in their home country. 

See Guide

Legal & Community Resources Outside of MT

Organizations that may be able to provide legal assistance, referrals, or community support for families whose loved ones are currently detained in immigration custody outside of Montana.

See Guide
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Car Preparedness Envelope

This envelope is designed to help you keep essential documents and emergency contacts in one safe place inside your vehicle. If you are ever stopped while driving, having the right documents organized and easy to access can help reduce stress and avoid unnecessary complications.

The envelope includes a step-by-step checklist to help you gather and organize important documents based on your situation.

What this envelope helps you organize

The guide helps you safely prepare:

  • Required driving documents

  • Important immigration or legal documents (copies only)

  • Emergency information

  • Rights Reminder Card

Get a Preparedness Envelope

You can pick up a Car Preparedness Envelope from Bienvenidos or request one from our team.

We can also help you review the checklist and make sure your documents and emergency contacts are properly organized.

📞 Phone / WhatsApp: 406-888-1050
📧 Email: info@bienvenidosgv.org

If you are an agency, community group, or organization working with families, please reach out to request multiple packets, larger orders, or the printable version to distribute within your community.

Pick Up Today

Drop Us a Line

Get Support and Preparedness Resources

Bienvenidos offers several ways to help you and your family stay prepared.

You can:

  • Pick up a Preparedness Packet with helpful information, checklists, and tools to help you organize important documents.
  • Schedule an appointment with a Community Navigator to talk through your situation, review preparedness steps, and identify helpful resources.
  • Ask questions and receive guidance about how to prepare yourself and your family.

If you would like to access any of these resources, please contact us:

Fill this form ->

Or contact us: 

Phone / WhatsApp: 406-888-1050
Email: info@bienvenidosgv.org

Our team is here to support you and help you feel more prepared.