As a family immigration law firm in Mesa, Nye Family Law understands how confusing and distressing changes in immigration enforcement can be. We work with individuals and families to prepare for, respond to, and challenge the effects of laws like the Go Stop Order.
Here’s what you need to know—and how we can help.
Understanding the Go Stop Order: What It Is and What It Does
The Go Stop Order refers to legislation passed in Arizona (Prop 314) that gives state and local law enforcement the authority to arrest individuals suspected of entering the country unlawfully, even without federal direction. This law makes it a state crime to cross the U.S.–Mexico border illegally, introducing new layers of enforcement beyond the existing federal system.
Unlike traditional federal immigration enforcement, which is overseen by agencies like U.S. Customs and Border Protection and ICE, this law shifts enforcement powers into local hands. Proponents say it’s an effort to reduce border crossings by supplementing federal enforcement. But in practice, it creates serious risks for anyone who looks or sounds “foreign.”
Our concern as immigration lawyers in Mesa is simple: families pay the price when such laws are implemented. Children may be separated from their parents. Long-time residents may be targeted based on appearance alone. And people pursuing legal immigration pathways may find themselves unjustly detained or deported.
The Legal Backdrop: What the U.S. Constitution Says
Immigration is typically a matter for the federal government, not individual states. That’s why the Go Stop Order is already facing serious legal challenges. Critics argue that it violates the Supremacy Clause of the U.S. Constitution, which says that federal law overrides state law in areas like immigration.
This isn’t the first time Arizona has tested the boundaries of immigration law. In 2012, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Arizona v. United States that key parts of Arizona’s SB1070 law were unconstitutional because they interfered with federal immigration policies (source).
The Go Stop Order may eventually be struck down for the same reasons, but in the meantime, immigrant families must live under its shadow.
What Does This Mean for Families in Mesa, AZ?
Many families in our community include a mix of immigration statuses. One parent may be a citizen while the other is undocumented. A child may be a U.S. citizen, but the grandparents are waiting on visas. Under the Go Stop Order, even a minor infraction—like driving without a license—could lead to arrest and deportation.
This law could affect families in several ways:
- Family separation: Arrests and deportations can split children from parents or spouses from one another.
- Loss of income: If a family’s breadwinner is detained, the entire household may face financial instability.
- Fear of engagement: Families may avoid hospitals, police, or schools for fear of exposing themselves to enforcement.
- Barriers to legal status: Interactions with law enforcement could complicate or derail a pending immigration case.
As your Mesa, AZ, family immigration attorney, we work to protect your family and help you plan for these risks.
Mesa’s Immigrant Community: A Snapshot
Looking at the demographics can help us understand the real impact of the Go Stop Order. According to the American Immigration Council, 13% of Arizona’s population is foreign-born, and more than one in five children in the state has at least one immigrant parent (source).
Mesa has a significant immigrant population that includes families from Mexico, Central America, Asia, and the Middle East. Many have lived in the area for decades, contributing to local businesses, schools, and places of worship. These are the families now facing heightened risk.
Our job as a family immigration law firm in Mesa is to ensure those families are informed and protected.
How We Help Families Prepare for Enforcement Actions
At Nye Family Law, we offer proactive strategies for families concerned about immigration enforcement under the Go Stop Order. These include:
- Family preparedness plans: We help families develop emergency plans in case of arrest or detention. This includes naming guardians for children, preparing documentation, and understanding your rights.
- Legal consultations: We offer confidential consultations if you’re unsure how the law affects you. We can evaluate your risk factors, immigration status, and available legal remedies.
- Representation in immigration proceedings: If someone you love is detained under the Go Stop Order, we provide immediate representation in removal proceedings and bond hearings.
- Adjusting status where possible: We review your eligibility for visas, green cards, or asylum and help you pursue legal paths to remain in the U.S.
As a trusted immigration lawyer in Mesa, we don’t just interpret the law—we advocate for your right to stay with your family.
Know Your Rights Under the Go Stop Order
Even under state-level enforcement, you still have rights under the U.S. Constitution. These include:
- The right to remain silent: You don’t have to answer questions about your immigration status or country of origin.
- The right to an attorney: If you are arrested, you have the right to consult with a lawyer.
- Protection against unlawful search: Officers generally need a warrant to enter your home unless there is an emergency.
We educate our clients about how to interact with law enforcement safely and what to do if confronted under the Go Stop Order.
What to Do if You or a Loved One is Detained
If someone in your household is detained:
- Stay calm and do not resist.
- Contact our office immediately—we offer urgent assistance for immigration detention cases.
- Do not sign anything without consulting with an attorney.
- Gather essential documents—birth certificates, immigration paperwork, marriage licenses, etc.
- Inform a trusted friend or family member of the situation.
We’ve helped many families navigate difficult situations like this. You’re not alone; we are ready to stand by your side.
Legislative Updates and Challenges
Arizona’s Go Stop Order is already under fire from immigrant rights groups and legal experts. In the coming months, lawsuits are expected to challenge its constitutionality, potentially leading to temporary injunctions or permanent repeal.
Until then, enforcement may vary by county. Some Arizona sheriffs have publicly stated they will not prioritize this law due to its similarity to SB1070 and potential to violate civil rights.
We track these developments closely and inform our clients about what to expect and how to respond as the situation unfolds.
Why Families Trust Nye Family Law
- We speak plain language, not legal jargon.
- We respond quickly and compassionately.
- We understand the emotional toll of immigration enforcement.
- We fight for every client like they’re our own family.
As your Mesa, AZ, family immigration attorney, we are committed to ensuring your family’s safety, rights, and future.
FAQs
Is the Go Stop Order currently being enforced in Mesa, AZ?
Enforcement may vary by jurisdiction, and some sheriffs hesitate to implement the Go Stop Order. However, we recommend preparing for enforcement and understanding your rights regardless of current activity levels.
Can someone be arrested under the Go Stop Order without federal involvement?
Yes. The Go Stop Order allows state and local officers to arrest individuals based on suspicion of unlawful entry, even without direction from federal immigration agencies. This creates significant risks for those in undocumented or mixed-status families.
What should I do if I have a pending immigration case?
If you have an open immigration petition or are awaiting a green card, consult an immigration lawyer in Mesa as soon as possible. Arrests or charges under the Go Stop Order could affect your pending case, especially if criminal charges are involved.
Are U.S. citizen children affected by this law?
While the law doesn’t target U.S. citizens, many children live in households where parents or guardians may be undocumented. These families may face separation if a parent is detained or deported, making legal preparation crucial.
Can I challenge the Go Stop Order if I’m arrested?
Yes, but you’ll need legal representation. We help clients challenge unlawful arrests, request bond hearings, and appeal deportation orders. Every case is different, so a personalized legal strategy is key.
Take the First Step Toward Protection
If you’re worried about how the Go Stop Order might affect your family, now is the time to act. A simple consultation can help you clarify your legal standing, explore options, and build a path forward.
We offer in-person, virtual, and after-hours appointments to accommodate your schedule. We also provide bilingual services to better serve our diverse Mesa community.
Your family’s future is worth protecting. Let’s take the first step together.
