FAMILYEMERGENCY
PREPAREDNESSTOOLKIT—
MINNESOTA
A toolkit for families to plan in the case of arrest, detention or deportation.
English Version, First Edition 2017.
Th
e information in this toolkit is adapted from a variety of local and national
resources. This information is not legal advice. For answers to individual legal
questions, you may want to consult with a lawyer. For a complete list of sources
please contact VLN at (612) 752-6677.
Page 1 – English Version
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit
Latest Version: December 2017
Volunteer Lawyers Network
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit—English
Minnesota—2017
1. About the Volunteers Lawyers Network
Since 1966, the Volunteer Lawyers Network, Ltd. (VLN), a 501(c)(3) non-profit, has been providing
free legal services in civil law matters through volunteers to income-eligible persons in Minnesota to
fulfill its mission of “protecting and promoting the basic human needs of people in poverty through the
power of legal volunteers.” VLN seeks to provide persons with positive outcomes to their legal
matters. Positive outcomes include: preventing homelessness; preventing illegal garnishment;
preventing domestic violence; obtaining wages for hours worked; and obtaining custody orders.
Through its Immigrant Legal Services Program VLN provides free legal advice, brief service, full
representation, and education in immigration matters. For more information about how to access
VLN’s services and to download copies of this toolkit and other resources visit www.vlnmn.org.
2. About this Toolkit
VLN developed this Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit to help families plan for the unexpected
in these times of uncertainly, in particular if you do not currently have a legal status in the U.S.A. or
are a member of a family in which members have different immigration situations. The purpose of this
Toolkit is to provide important information and tools to you know what to do in the event your or a
family member faces arrest, detention, or deportation.
Planning for an uncertain future where immigration status is insecure is crucial. It helps to:
• Relieve stress because you can plan ahead and make legal and other plans to care for your
children and property in the event something may happen to you.
• Avoid spending large sums of money to do things that do not require a lawyer or other
professional help. Unscrupulous persons and others in Minnesota have been known to charge
hundreds of dollars or even more to complete and/or simply notarize legal and other
documents. Providing free information on how to do this on your own along with information
about free resources in the community may help you avoid these expensive and sometimes
illegal or unethical practices.
• Know where to obtain reliable and on-the-spot legal screening and advice.
• Obtain free legal information and documents such as a Delegation of Parental Authority that
you can use in practical ways.
3. Source of Information
The Volunteer Lawyers Network thanks those who provided guidance, contributed to the production of
this toolkit and helped to conduct trainings and workshops: Colleen Beebe Purisaca, Comunidad Latina
Unida en Servicio (CLUES), Barbara Cruz, Glen Drew, Fox Rothschild LLP, Peggy Flaig, Emily
Good, Gabriela Maza-Kos, Lenore Millibergity, Peter Nagell, Nelson Peralta, Kara Rieke, Esteban
Rivera, Peggy Russell, Lymari J. Santana, Mark P. Schneebeck, Sheila Stuhlman, Urban Ventures, and
Tom Walsh.
VLN acknowledges other local organizations that also have valuable resources regarding this subject-
matter: the Advocates for Human Rights, Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota, Mid-Minnesota Legal
Aid, and the Minnesota Legal Services State Support.
Th
e information in this toolkit is adapted from a variety of local and national
resources. This information is not legal advice. For answers to individual legal
questions, you may want to consult with a lawyer. For a complete list of sources
please contact VLN at (612) 752-6677.
Page 2 – English Version
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit
Latest Version: December 2017
Volunteer Lawyers Network
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit—English
Minnesota—2017
VLN Family Preparedness Toolkit-Information Sheets
1.01-Eng-VLN InfoSheet_Emergency Plan Overview_April 2017
1.02-EngEsp_VLN InfoSheet_Other Resources_April 2017
2.01-Eng_VLN InfoSheet_Choosing a Good Lawyer_September 2017
2.02-Eng-VLN_List of Free and Low-cost Immigration Legal Services in Minnesota_April 2017
2.03-Eng-VLN_What to Do if I am Stopped, Arrested or Detained by ICE (to be included)
3.01-Eng-VLN_Important Documents I Need to Keep in a Safe Place (to be included)
4.01A-Eng-VLN_InfoSheet_Child Documentation List_April 2017
4.01B-Eng-VLN_InfoSheet_About DOPA_April 2017
4.01C-Eng-VLN_DOPA Sample Form_MMLA&LawHelpMN_April 2017
4.01C-Esp-VLN_DOPA in Spanish (not for legal use)_April 2017
4.01D-EngEsp-VLN_InfoSheet_Child Emergency Contacts_April 2017
4.01E-EngEsp-VLN_InfoSheet_Child Important Information_April 2017
4.01F-Eng-VLN_InfoSheet_Sample Letters_April 2017
4.01G-Eng-VLN InfoSheet_Passport Information_April 2017
4.02-Eng-VLN_InfoSheet_Property and Powers of Attorney (to be included)
INFORMATION SHEETS-Table of Contents
Th
e information in this toolkit is adapted from a variety of local and national
resources. This information is not legal advice. For answers to individual legal
questions, you may want to consult with a lawyer. For a complete list of sources
please contact VLN at (612) 752-6677.
Page 3 – English Version
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit
Latest Version: December 2017
Volunteer Lawyers Network
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit—English
Minnesota—2017
Why should I have a family emergency plan?
We all need to have a plan in case we face an emergency, no matter what our situation or legal status. This is
even more important in uncertain times when we do not know what may happen to people who are
undocumented or families made up of people with mixed immigration situations. Here are some reasons why
it is important for all families and individuals have a plan and be prepared:
• It helps us to make decisions on our own before they are made for us.
• It frees us from being anxious because we have done what we can to plan for the unexpected.
• It helps us to be ready in case of an emergency so that we do not have to do things at the last minute.
• It protects our children and families from unnecessary disruption.
• It protects what we have worked hard to earn in the best way possible.
How can I use the information sheets in this toolkit?
This toolkit contains basic information and checklists of some things that you may need to learn about or do to
create a family emergency. To start, below is a list of general topics that may be more fully explained in
Information Sheets in separate sections in this manual. Look for the section you want to work on and get
started! As you complete sections, check the items off the list of things to do to prepare!
Section One: Important Immigration Information and Resources that I have collected and saved
I know what my immigration options are and I got this information from a trustworthy immigration
lawyer, or DOJ (Department of Justice) accredited representative.
I know about my legal rights from a trustworthy organization or lawyer.
I know where to get free immigration and other legal information and help in the community.
I know what my rights are and what I need to do if I am arrested or detained by ICE.
I know the documents that I should and should not carry with me.
I am aware that there are scams that steal people’s money and make promises that are not true and I
will not let myself get scammed!
Section Two: Important Documents and Information I should have and keep in a safe place
I have gathered important documents that I may need quickly to keep in a safe place.
I have important information that I may need to share quickly with someone I trust in a safe place.
Section Three: I have to care for my children and my property.
I have decided what I will do with my children and have made the proper legal arrangements.
I have decided what I will do with my property, like my house, car, etc., and have made the proper legal
arrangements.
I have friends, family and groups who know me and who I can contact if something happens to me.
Where can I get help to create a plan for my family and me?
Call the Volunteer Lawyers Network at (612) 752-6677 or email us at vln@vlnmn.org for more information
about where to get help to create an emergency plan.
INFORMATION SHEET 1.01-Eng (1 page):
What is a Family Emergency Plan?
Th
e information in this toolkit is adapted from a variety of local and national
resources. This information is not legal advice. For answers to individual legal
questions, you may want to consult with a lawyer. For a complete list of sources
please contact VLN at (612) 752-6677.
Page 4 – English Version
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit
Latest Version: December 2017
Volunteer Lawyers Network
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit—English
Minnesota—2017
There are many family emergency planning and Know Your Rights resources produced by different groups and
available nationwide. Each varies regarding focus and content. The charts below contain some of the resources
VLN found as it researched information for this toolkit, along with VLN’s own materials.
Hay muchos recursos hechos por diferentes grupos y disponibles a nivel nacional sobre cómo hacer un plan de
emergencia y como conocer sus derechos. Cada uno varía según su enfoque y contenido. Los cuadros a
continuación contienen algunos de los recursos que La Red de Abogados encontró a medida que buscaba
información para este kit de herramientas. También incluye los recursos producidos por La Red de Abogados
Voluntarios.
Minnesota Resources/Recursos en Minnesota:
Title/Título
Institution/Institución
Link/Enlace
Region
-
Date/
Region-Fecha
DOPA Workshop Manual
-
Minnes
ota
Volunteer Lawyers
Network
vlnmn.org
Minnesota
April 2017
Kit de Herramientas para un Plan de
Emergencia Familiar—Minnesota/ Family
Emergency Preparedness Toolkit—
Minnesota
Volunteer Lawyers
Network
vlnmn.org
Minnesota
April 2017
Información general sobre la ley de
inmigración y recomendaciones para
proteger su elegibilidad para cualquier
beneficio inmigratorio en el futuro
Immigrant Law Center
of Minnesota
ilcm.org
June 2016
Preparing Your Family for Encounters with
ICE-Minnesota
Immigrant Law Center
of Minnesota
ilcm.org
April 2017
Delegation of Parental Authority (DOPA)
-
Fact Sheet
Minnesota Legal
Services Coalition
lawhelpmn.org
Minnesota
2017
Other States or National Resources/Recursos en otros estados y nacionales:
Title
Institution/Project
Link
State(s)/Date
Protección de Bienes y la Custodia de
Menores al Encarar la Deportación/
Protecting Assets & Child Custody in the
Face of Deportation
Appleseed: Financial
Access and Asset
Building Project
appleseednetwork.org
2012
Esta Usted en Peligro de Ser Arrestad
o,
Detenido o Deportado por la Inmigración?
Haga un plan de emergencia
Catholic Legal
Immigration Network,
Inc.
cliniclegal.org
September
2008
Family Safety Planning: A training manual
by Catholic Legal Immigration Network,
Catholic Legal
Immigration Network,
cliniclegal.org
INFORMATION SHEET/HOJA INFORMATIVA:
Some Family Emergency and Know Your Rights Resources in Minnesota and the USA
Algunos r
e
cursos sobre la planificación de emergencia y sus derechos en Minnesota y los EEUU
Th
e information in this toolkit is adapted from a variety of local and national
resources. This information is not legal advice. For answers to individual legal
questions, you may want to consult with a lawyer. For a complete list of sources
please contact VLN at (612) 752-6677.
Page 5 – English Version
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit
Latest Version: December 2017
Volunteer Lawyers Network
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit—English
Minnesota—2017
Inc. (CLINIC)
Inc.
Plan Familiar en Caso de Emergencia/
Family Preparedness Plan
Immigrant Legal
Resource Center
ilrc.org
Los Derechos de Inmigrantes/ Immigrant
Rights
Immigrant Legal
Resource Center
ilrc.org
2017
¡Protéjase! Cómo obtener la mejor ayuda
disponible para inmigración Protect
Yourself!/Learn How to Get the Best
Available Immigration Help
Immigrant Legal
Resource Center
www.ilrc.org
Red Card
Immigrant Legal
Resource Center
Family Safety Planning Toolkit: Be Not
Afraid-Resources for Congregations &
Immigrant Families Fractured by Fear
Lutheran Immigration
& Refugee Service
lirs.org
Kit de Herramientas de Planificación para
la Seguridad Familiar
Lutheran Immigration
& Refugee Service
lirs.org
Documentos de Poder Notarial Duradero
Northwest Justice
Project
washingtonlawhelp.org
August 2016
Plan Familiar en Caso de Emergencia
Centro de Justicia
Inmigrante
Que Debe Hacer si la Policía, Agentes de
Inmigración o el FBI lo Detienen
American Civil
Liberties Union (ACLU)
aclu
-
mn.org
Know Your Rights: Everyone has certain
basic rights, no matter who is president
National Immigration
Law Center
nilc.org
November
2016
Know Your Rights with ICE
Immigrant Defense
Project (IDP)
immigrantdefenseproje
ct.org
New York
Immigrants:
Knowledge is Power, Protect
Your Rights! #16111733
American Immigration
Lawyers Association
aila.org
November
2016
¡Tenga cuidado cuando busca ayuda con
su caso de inmigracion!/Watch Out When
Your Seek Help with Your Immigration
Papers!
Immigrant Legal
Resource Center
ilrc.org
National
Edition
2009
Conoce sus derechos como inmigrante
/
Know Your Rights as an Immigrant
American Friends
Service Committee
(AFSC)
afsc.org
North
Carolina
Guía de Derechos y Planificación
/Rights
and Planning Guide
Justice For Our
Neighbors: Nebraska
et. al
jfon
-
ne.org
February
2017
Vivir en los Estados Unidos: una guía para
los jóvenes inmigrantes/Living in the
United States: A Guide for Immigrant
Youth
Immigrant Legal
Resource Center
www.ilrc.org
2015
If you want free help to create a family emergency plan and live in Minnesota call VLN at (621) 752-6677 for
more information. / Si Ud. desea ayuda gratuita para crear un plan de emergencia para su familia y vive en
Minnesota, llame a La Red de Abogados Voluntarios al (612) 752-6677 para más información.
Th
e information in this toolkit is adapted from a variety of local and national
resources. This information is not legal advice. For answers to individual legal
questions, you may want to consult with a lawyer. For a complete list of sources
please contact VLN at (612) 752-6677.
Page 6 – English Version
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit
Latest Version: December 2017
Volunteer Lawyers Network
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit—English
Minnesota—2017
What are civil legal services?
Civil legal services help people with non-criminal legal matters such as medical care, housing, family,
bankruptcy, government benefits, employment, immigration, consumer, and education.
What kind of help is there in Minnesota for people with civil legal problems?
Minnesota has some free and low cost civil legal services. Private attorneys charge a fee.
• Free legal services programs. There are agencies that provide free civil legal services, including
immigration. If you qualify for free help depends on:
Your income and the income of your household.
Where you live.
What kind of legal case you have.
Your immigration status (in some cases).
The agency’s capacity.
o For a list of free legal services in MN visit: www.lawhelpmn.org
o For a list of free immigration legal service providers in MN visit:
https://www.vlnmn.org/recursos-legales-importantes
• Other free legal services. Unions, social service, advocacy, and government agencies may provide free
legal services. For example:
Office of Multicultural Services in Hennepin County.
Minnesota Department of Human Rights.
Department of Labor.
American Civil Liberties Union.
Children’s Law Center of Minnesota.
Harriet Tubman and other domestic violence programs.
o Call 211 for more information about free legal help.
• Low-cost legal services in immigration matters.
o For a list of low cost immigration legal service agencies in Minnesota visit:
https://www.justice.gov/eoir/recognition-accreditation-roster-reports
• Legal services for a fee. If you can’t find free legal services, you may want or need to pay for a lawyer.
What kind of free help is available to me in most civil law matters, including immigration?
Depending on your legal case, you may be eligible for different kinds of free legal help including:
• Full Representation - a lawyer helps you with your case from start to finish.
• Brief Service - a lawyer helps you do a specific task but does not represent you.
• Advice - a lawyer gives you advice about your legal situation but does not represent you.
• Education - a lawyer or person who knows the law presents general legal information to a group.
How can I get free legal help in Minnesota with my civil legal case?
• Call. Call legal services providers to see if you qualify and to get connected to free legal help.
• Online. Apply for services and get legal answers online from some agency websites.
• In Person. Visit a free legal clinic to talk in person with a lawyer for 15 to 30 minutes. Call the agencies
for schedules, legal issues covered, and processes for getting an in-person consultation.
• Community Event. Attend an event that provides education, brief service, and/or advice by a legal
service agency at a local community center, school, church, etc.
Th
e information in this toolkit is adapted from a variety of local and national
resources. This information is not legal advice. For answers to individual legal
questions, you may want to consult with a lawyer. For a complete list of sources
please contact VLN at (612) 752-6677.
Page 7 – English Version
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit
Latest Version: December 2017
Volunteer Lawyers Network
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit—English
Minnesota—2017
What should I have with me when I talk to a lawyer?
• Have all the legal documents and paperwork for your case, even if it seems unimportant.
• Have the names and phone numbers of people the lawyer may need to call.
•
Give the lawyer all the information they ask for so you can get the best advice possible.
How can I hire a lawyer if I cannot find a free lawyer?
• You have the right to hire any lawyer you choose.
• Ramsey and Hennepin County Bar Associations have lawyer referral services that connect you to
private lawyers that will charge you for services. Some legal service agencies also have lists of private
lawyers that you can hire for a fee.
Will I get better services if I pay for a lawyer instead of getting a free lawyer?
No. You should receive the same quality of legal service whether you pay your lawyer or not.
Can people who are not lawyers give legal advice or services?
Generally, no. A person must be a lawyer to be able to legally provide legal advice and services.
How can I tell who is a lawyer and who is not a lawyer in Minnesota?
If you want proof that someone is a lawyer, you can ask to see their diploma and license, or check if they are a
registered lawyer in Minnesota at https://www.lro.mn.gov/for-the-public/lawyer-registration-database-
search-public/. A Notary Public or Notary is not a lawyer and should give legal advice or help.
What makes a lawyer "good"?
Good lawyers generally will:
• Only help you if they have enough experience and knowledge.
• Be honest with you about your case, even if they think you should not continue with your case.
• Be in regular communication with you about your case.
• Give you copies of paperwork filed for you.
• Not make any promises about how your case will turn out, but they should tell you what could possibly
happen, how, why and when.
• Clearly explain the law and what to expect.
• Put in writing what they agree to do and not do, how much they will charge you, what the legal fees
cover (e.g. if the client pays extra filing and/or court fees, etc.), and how you must pay them and when.
This is called a client agreement, contract or retainer. The client signs this document.
How do lawyers for a fee charge?
Some ways to charge fees include:
• Flat fees: the lawyer charges the client one fee to do one task.
• Fees by the hour: the lawyer charges for each hour spent on the case.
• Retainer: the lawyer charges part of the fee at the beginning.
• Contingency: the lawyer gets part of the money you receive if you win the case.
What can you do if you have trouble with your lawyer?
• Fire your lawyer.
• Get a second opinion from another lawyer.
• Consider filing a complaint with the Minnesota Lawyers Professional Responsibility Board at
http://lprb.mncourts.gov/complaints/Pages/default.aspx
• If you have an immigration case, you may need to file other complaints, but you should talk to a new
immigration lawyer first.
Th
e information in this toolkit is adapted from a variety of local and national
resources. This information is not legal advice. For answers to individual legal
questions, you may want to consult with a lawyer. For a complete list of sources
please contact VLN at (612) 752-6677.
Page 8 – English Version
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit
Latest Version: December 2017
Volunteer Lawyers Network
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit—English
Minnesota—2017
NON
-
PROFIT IMMIGRATION S
ERVICES
–
FULL REPRESENTATION
-
2.02
-
ENG
-
VLN (PAGE 1 OF 2)
CONTACT INFORMATION
ELIGIBILITY
SERVICES PROVIDED
The A
dvocates for Human Rights
330 2
nd
Ave S, Suite 800
Minneapolis, MN 55401
(612) 341-9845 Fax: (612) 341-2971
Minnesota, North Dakota,
South Dakota
Income guidelines applied.
Areas of legal assistance:
Adjustment of Status, Asylum applications,
Removal hearings
Types of legal assistance: Help completing forms, Filings with USCIS,
Representation at Asylum Interviews (Credible Fear Interviews, Reasonable
Fear Interviews), Representation before the Immigration Court, Representation
before the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA), Federal court appeals
Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota
450 N. Syndicate St., Suite 175
St. Paul, MN 55104
Client Intake: (800) 223-1368 (client intake hours
M, T, W 12pm-1:30pm; Th 6-7:30pm; no walk-ins)
Office Number: (651) 641-1011
Fax: (651) 641-1131
HOTLINE FOR LEGAL INFORMATION (not
advice): (651) 287-3715, Tuesdays 1-3pm and
Thursdays 6-8pm
Statewide
–
Minnesota with
offices in St. Paul,
Worthington, Austin and
Moorhead
Income guidelines applied.
Areas of legal assistance:
Adjustment of Status, Consular Processing,
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), Employment authorization,
Family-based petitions, NACARA, Naturalization/Citizenship, Removal
hearings, Special Immigrant Juvenile Status, T visas, Temporary Protected
Status (TPS), U visas, Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) petitions
Types of legal assistance: Help completing forms, Filings with USCIS,
Representation at Asylum Interviews (Credible Fear Interviews, Reasonable
Fear Interviews), Representation before the Immigration Court, Representation
before the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA), Federal court appeals
Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services
Refugee, Immigrant and Migrant Services
450 N. Syndicate Street, Suite 285
St. Paul, MN 55104
Client Intake: (800) 652-9733 (new clients
accepted 1st business day of each month at 9am)
Office Number: (651) 255-0797
East Metro and Southern
Minnesota
Income guidelines applied.
Areas of legal assistance:
Adjustment of Status, Consular Processing,
Employment authorization, Family-based petitions, Naturalization/Citizenship,
T visas, U visas, Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) petitions
Types of legal assistance: Help completing forms, Filings with USCIS
No clients in removal proceedings or seeking cancellation of removal, etc.
Mid
-
MN Legal Aid
Immigration Law Project
430 1
st
Ave N., Suite 300
Minneapolis, MN 55401
Client Intake: (612) 332-1441 or (612) 334-5970
(call M 10:30-3:30 and Th 1:30-3:30)
Fax: (612) 334-5755
Hennepin County and Anoka
County.
Income guidelines applied.
Areas of legal assistance:
Services include citizenship, permanent residency;
vulnerable youth and seniors; refugees and asylees; VAWA and other related
issues.
Types of legal assistance: Full representation
Mid
-
MN Legal Aid/St. Cloud
Area Legal
Services
830 W. Germaine St., Suite 300
St. Cloud, MN 56301
(320) 253-0121 or (888) 360-2889 (new client
screening M-F, 1:30pm-4:30pm)
Central Minnesota: Stearns,
Benton, Sherburne, Wright,
Todd, Morrison, Mille-Lacs,
Isanti, and Chisago Counties
Income guidelines applied.
Areas of legal assistance
:
Citizenship applications for clients age 60+; Green
card applications (no age limit)
Types of legal assistance: Full representation
Mid
-
MN Legal Aid (MMLA)
415 7
th
Street SW
P.O. Box 1866
Willmar, MN 56201
(320) 235-9600 / (888) 360-3666 (preferred intake
hours M-F, 8:30am-12pm)
West and Central Minnesota:
Big Stone, Chippewa,
Kandiyohi, Lac qui Parle,
Lincoln, Lyon, Meeker,
Renville, Swift, and Yellow
Medicine counties
Income guidelines applied.
Areas of legal assistance:
U
-
Visas; VAWA; Immediate family petitions, nunc
pro tunc; no defensive removal cases; NACARA, family reunification, LPR and
citizenship. Can work with undocumented immigrants. Cannot work on N-600s
or employment-related issues .
Types of Legal Assistance: Full representation
Legal Services of Northwest Minnesota
1015 7
th
Ave. N., Moorhead, MN 56560
(218) 233-8585 / (800) 450-8585 (phone intake
hours M-F, 9 am-3 pm; walk-ins M-F, 8:00 am-
4:30 pm)
Fax: (218) 233-8586
Northwest
Minnesota
Income guidelines applied.
Areas of Legal Assistance:
Citizenship applications and renewal of LPR; can
only work with clients who have legal immigration status (LSC regulations do
not permit cases with undocumented immigrants)
Types of Legal Assistance: Full representation
Office of Multicultural Services
1201 E. Lake St.
Minneapolis, MN 55407
Call for appointment: (612) 348-2193
M-F 8:00-4:30
Must live in Hennepin
County.
No income eligibility
guidelines.
Areas of Legal Assistance:
Certai
n adjustment of status, EAD renewals, and
Naturalization cases.
Types of Legal Assistance: Full representation
Th
e information in this toolkit is adapted from a variety of local and national
resources. This information is not legal advice. For answers to individual legal
questions, you may want to consult with a lawyer. For a complete list of sources
please contact VLN at (612) 752-6677.
Page 9 – English Version
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit
Latest Version: December 2017
Volunteer Lawyers Network
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit—English
Minnesota—2017
Volunteer Lawyers Network
600 Nicollet Avenue South, Suite 390A
Minneapolis, MN 55402
Call for an intake: (612) 752-6655
M, W, TH between 9:00am and 1:00pm
Statewide
Income guidelines applied.
Areas of Legal Assistance:
Phone and walk
-
in advice at certain legal clinics
in most types of immigration matters. Brief service and full representation in
limited types of cases.
Types of Legal Assistance: Phone or in person advice, brief services, full
representation in limited cases such as U-Visas, citizenship, and DACA.
University of Minnesota Law School
Center for New Americans
Detainee Rights Clinic
Immigration detainees in MN may call
(612) 625-5515 at no expense
Families/friends may email [email protected]
Must be detained at
Sherburne, Ramsey, Carver
or Freeborn County Jail by
Immigration and Customs
Enforcement
Areas of Legal Assistance:
Removal he
arings for people in detention
Types of Legal Assistance: Full representation
FREE LEGAL CLINICS
–
BRIEF SERVICE, ADVIC
E AND REFERRAL SERVI
CES
-
2.02
-
ENG
-
VLN (PAGE 2 OF 2)
CONTACT INFORMATION
SERVICE AREA
SERVICES PROVIDED
West 7
th
Community Center
265 Oneida Street
St. Paul, MN 55102
(651) 298-5493
3
rd
Wednesday of every month at 3:00 p.m.
Must call (651) 298-5493 to register in advance
and bring interpreter.
Ramsey County and East
Metro
Areas of legal assistance:
Im
migration
Types of legal assistance: Brief advice, service and referral on immigration-
related matters.
Park Avenue Legal Clinic/VLN
Park Avenue Methodist Church
3400 Park Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55404
Walk-in Only every Thursday between 3 and 5 p.m.
(except holiday weeks and fifth Thursday of month)
Twin Cities and
surrounding areas
Income guidelines applied.
Areas of legal assistance:
Brief advice and/or service in immigration matters
weekly; in family first and third weeks of month; in other matters less frequently.
Referrals in civil law matters and possible match for full representation.
Types of legal assistance: Brief advice, service and/or referral in most civil
legal matters with a focus on immigration matters.
Waite House Legal Clinic/VL
N
2323 11
th
Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55404
(612) 721-1681
Every 1
st
and 3
rd
Thursday from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Walk-in or make appointment at (612) 721-1681
Twin Cities and
surrounding areas
Income guidelines applied.
Areas of lega
l assistance:
Brief advice and/or service in immigration matters
and less frequently in other legal matters including housing, family, and
employment. Referrals in civil law matters and possible match for full
representation.
Types of legal assistance: Advice, information, brief service, and referral.
Brooklyn Legal Clinic/VLN
7200 Brooklyn Boulevard
Brooklyn Center, MN
Every first Friday of the month, 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.
Walk-in, first-come, first-served.
Twin Cities and
surrounding areas
Income guidelines applied.
Areas of legal assistance:
Brief advice and/or service in immigration matters
and less frequently in other legal matters including housing, family, and
employment. Referrals in civil law matters and possible match for full
representation.
Types of legal assistance: Advice, information, brief service, and referral.
BIA
-
RECOGNIZED AGENCIES
PROVIDING LOW
-
COST IMMIGRATION SER
VICES IN LIMITED MAT
TERS
CONTACT INFORMATION
SERVICE AREA
SERVICES PROVIDED
International Institute of Minnesota
1694 Como Avenue
St. Paul, MN 55108
(651) 647-0191, ext. 307; [email protected]
Twin Cities and
surrounding areas
Nominal fees may apply.
Areas of legal assistance:
Help refugee, asylees and other immigrants with
AOR’s, citizenship, lawful permanent residency, replacement of documents, and
other immigration-related issues. Central American Minor family reunification.
Minnesota Council of Churches
122 East Franklin Avenue, Suite 100
Minneapolis, MN 55404
(612) 230-3224 (Nina Vang)
Walk-in hours: Thursdays, 1-4pm
Twin Cities and
surrounding areas
Nominal fees may apply.
Areas of legal assistance:
Help for refugees and asylees in family
reunification, green cards, citizenship, replacement of documents, work
authorization, travel documents, etc., and AOR’s.
Lutheran Social Service
2440 Park Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55404
(612) 879-5260;
Walk-in hours: T, 9am-12pm; 1-4:00pm
Statewide
Nominal fees may apply.
Areas of legal assistance:
Help refugees an
d asylees with AOR’s, travel and
replacement documents, FOIA’s, green cards, family reunification, citizenship,
change of address.
Arrive Ministries
1515 East 6
th
Street
Richfield, MN 55423
(612) 243-2961 to make an appointment
Statewide
Nominal fees may apply.
Areas of legal assistance:
Help refugees, asylees and other immigrants with
green cards, family-based visas, TPS, diversity visas, employment authorization,
replacement and travel documents, AOR’s, and citizenship.
Th
e information in this toolkit is adapted from a variety of local and national
resources. This information is not legal advice. For answers to individual legal
questions, you may want to consult with a lawyer. For a complete list of sources
please contact VLN at (612) 752-6677.
Page 10 – English Version
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit
Latest Version: December 2017
Volunteer Lawyers Network
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit—English
Minnesota—2017
What documents should I have ready and in a safe place for each of my children?
Keep two sets of important documents in separate envelopes for each child.
Keep one set of the original documents and lists in a safe place in your home.
Keep copies of the original documents and information in a second envelope that you give to the
designated caretaker for each of your children.
List of Documents and Information to Gather:
Each child’s birth certificate
Each child’s social security card (if they have one)
Each child’s medical information
Each child’s school, activity, and church information sheet
Helpful things to know about each child
Names, phone numbers, email addresses of family and friends who your designated caretaker may
wish to contact
Emergency contact information
Delegation of Parental Authority (DOPA) by parent with an original signature and Notary Seal or
other custody arrangement paperwork (or other legal document regarding custody arrangements)
Each child’s passport (if your child does not have a passport, you should consider obtaining a
passport from his/her country of citizenship; see instructions on how to obtain a passport for U.S.
citizens and the contact information for Latin American Consulates in the USA)
Each child’s immigration paperwork (e.g. greencard, DACA, certificate of naturalization, I-94, etc.)
Copies for each document above for each child
Where should I keep these documents and information?
Keep the documents together in a separate envelope for each child and find a safe place for the original
documents. Keep the copies in another safe place. Keep in mind that wherever you keep the documents safely,
they should also be accessible in case of emergency.
Do I need to talk to a lawyer?
You can collect the information and documents mentioned above on your own without a lawyer. You may
want to talk to a lawyer if you have questions about custody for your child, your legal rights, or other legal
questions. First seek out help from a free legal service before paying a lawyer to help you.
Where can I get help to organize my documents?
Contact VLN at [email protected] to see about a Family Preparedness services near you. You may want to ask
help from a local social service agency, a church or other community institution that you trust to help you.
HELPFUL
FORMS:
•
Information Sheet: DOPA
• DOPA in English
•
DOPA translation in Spanish
•
Emergency Contact Sheet
• Important Document Sheet
INFORMATION SHEET 4.01A-Eng (1 page):
Documentation List for Each Child
CHILD’S NAME: ___________________________________________
Th
e information in this toolkit is adapted from a variety of local and national
resources. This information is not legal advice. For answers to individual legal
questions, you may want to consult with a lawyer. For a complete list of sources
please contact VLN at (612) 752-6677.
Page 11 – English Version
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit
Latest Version: December 2017
Volunteer Lawyers Network
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit—English
Minnesota—2017
What is a Delegation of Parental Authority (DOPA)?
• A DOPA lets you give the legal authority to someone else to make decisions for your child or children.
You choose the person you want to care for your child. This is an agreement between you and the
person you want to care for your children. It is not a court order. The agreement is temporary and can
last up to one year. You can renew it every year.
• The DOPA is one legal way in Minnesota to temporarily allow someone else to make decisions for your
children. You do not need to go to court to do the DOPA. There are other legal actions you can take to
give someone else temporary custody of your children. You should talk with a family lawyer if you
would like information about these other options.
Why might I want to do a DOPA?
• If you are at risk of being arrested, detained or deported, and have minor children in your care, you
may want to consider doing a DOPA.
• A DOPA may help avoid your children being placed in foster care if you are picked up by ICE.
What is the delegated caregiver responsible for?
• The delegated caregiver is responsible for:
o providing food, clothing and shelter for your child
o protecting the child from harm
o obtaining necessary medical care for your child
o enrolling the child in school
Who can I give this authority to?
• You can give permission to anyone you choose to care for your children. Here are some questions to
ask before you decide who you would like to care for your children:
o Will the person I choose to care for my children take good care of them?
o Does the person I choose want to care for my children?
o How long can the person I choose care for my children?
o How much will it cost to take care of my children?
o If the person I choose is not a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, or someone with a
legal status, will this affect my children’s situation? (For now in Minnesota, the person you
choose does not need to have an immigration status, but this could change in the future.).
o Have I given the person who will take care of my children all the information they need to
take good care of them? (For example, do they know my child’s medical needs and the names
of their doctors? Do they know where my child goes to school? Do they have other important
information and emergency contacts?
INFORMATION SHEET 4.01B-Eng (2 pages):
Delegation of Parental Authority (DOPA) in Minnesota
(Minn. Stat. § 524.5
-
211
)
Note:
You may also add other responsibilities
in the Delegation of Parental Authority. For
example, some parents may want to add that
they give permission for the caregiver to
arrange for domestic or international travel
for the child. This may or may not be
honored.
Th
e information in this toolkit is adapted from a variety of local and national
resources. This information is not legal advice. For answers to individual legal
questions, you may want to consult with a lawyer. For a complete list of sources
please contact VLN at (612) 752-6677.
Page 12 – English Version
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit
Latest Version: December 2017
Volunteer Lawyers Network
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit—English
Minnesota—2017
What information do I need to complete the DOPA form?
• The name and home county of the person who will care for your child
• The county where you will get your form notarized
• The complete names and birthdates of your child or children
When does the DOPA end?
• The DOPA is valid for up to one year from the date it is signed and notarized but it can be renewed for
one year at a time.
• Any parent can revoke or cancel the DOPA at any time. The best thing to do would be to revoke or
cancel the DOPA in writing, but this is not a requirement.
• If a non-custodial parent wants to revoke and /or remove the child from the designated
caregiver’s home, s/he may need to go to court to get an order of custody.
Who has to sign and who has to know about the DOPA?
• One parent can sign the DOPA but you have to tell the other living parent about the DOPA within 30
days of getting the DOPA notarized (see exceptions below). You can mail or deliver by hand the DOPA
within 30 days.
• The parent who signs the DOPA does NOT have to tell the other living parent about the DOPA IF:
o The other parent does NOT have visitation rights under a court order, OR
o The other parent has supervised visitation rights under a court order, OR
o The other parent has an existing Order for Protection against him/her.
Who has to sign the DOPA and how?
•
At least one parent must sign the DOPA with a Notary Public who will watch the parent sign and date
the form. The parent must show the Notary Public a valid photo ID.
Where can I get help to complete a DOPA?
• There is an online form available in English for free at: http://www.lawhelpmn.org/resource/online-
delegation-of-parental-authority?lang=EN
• The Volunteer Lawyers Network has special free workshops to help people complete the DOPA.
• Beware of notaries, lawyers or others who want to charge you large fees to complete a DOPA.
Do I need to talk to a lawyer?
• You should talk to a lawyer before you use this form if:
o The other parent wants custody of your child, OR
o Your child will be living in another state, OR
o The other parent is spending time with your child, and the new home will make that more
difficult, OR
o You have any questions about whether a DOPA is best for you and your child.
HELPFUL
FORMS:
•
Information Sheet: DOPA
• DOPA in English
•
DOPA translation in Spanish
•
Emergency Contact Sheet
• Important Document Sheet
Th
e information in this toolkit is adapted from a variety of local and national
resources. This information is not legal advice. For answers to individual legal
questions, you may want to consult with a lawyer. For a complete list of sources
please contact VLN at (612) 752-6677.
Page 13 – English Version
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit
Latest Version: December 2017
Volunteer Lawyers Network
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit—English
Minnesota—2017
DELEGATION OF PARENTAL AUTHORITY (DOPA)
Delegation of Powers by Parent Minn. Stat. § 524.5-211
STATE OF MINNESOTA )
) ss.
COUNTY OF ____________ )
1. My name is .
(your name)
I am the parent of .
(your child’s name)
My child’s birthdate is .
(your child’s birthday)
2. I appoint , to be my legal Attorney-in-Fact to
have parental authority over my child, .
Note: An Attorney-in-Fact is what the person you name to care for your child is called. That person does not have to be an
attorney.
This DOPA lasts:
(check one)
[ ] For one year from the date of my signature
OR
[ ] until ,
(fill in date)
which is less than one year following the date of my
signature.
3. This DOPA gives my Attorney-in-Fact permission to care for and make decisions about my child
named above. These decisions include, but are not limited to:
a. Getting medical treatment for my child
b. Enrolling my child in school
c. Authorize national and/or international travel
d. Providing a home, care, and supervision of my child.
4. This DOPA does not give my Attorney-in-Fact permission to consent to the marriage or adoption
of my child.
5. I understand that by law I have to give or mail a copy of this document to any other parent within
30 days of signing it unless:
a. The other parent does not have parenting time rights or has supervised parenting time
rights
OR
b. There is an existing Order for Protection in effect against the other parent to protect me
or my child.
[SIGNATURES ON FOLLOWING PAGE – Page 2]
Th
e information in this toolkit is adapted from a variety of local and national
resources. This information is not legal advice. For answers to individual legal
questions, you may want to consult with a lawyer. For a complete list of sources
please contact VLN at (612) 752-6677.
Page 14 – English Version
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit
Latest Version: December 2017
Volunteer Lawyers Network
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit—English
Minnesota—2017
SIGNATURES
I swear that everything I have stated in this document is true and correct.
Parent or Guardian:
Date: _________________ _________________________________________
(sign your name)
(print your name)
Subscribed and sworn to before me
this _____ day of ________, 20___.
_____________________________
Notary Public
Attorney-in-Fact:
(the Attorney-in-Fact does not have to sign in front of a notary)
I accept the responsibilities of Attorney-in-Fact for .
(child’s name)
Date:_________________
(Attorney-in-Fact signature)
(Attorney-in-Fact printed name)
This form is available in English online for free at:
http://www.lawhelpmn.org/resource/online-delegation-of-parental-authority?lang=EN
Th
e information in this toolkit is adapted from a variety of local and national
resources. This information is not legal advice. For answers to individual legal
questions, you may want to consult with a lawyer. For a complete list of sources
please contact VLN at (612) 752-6677.
Page 15 – English Version
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit
Latest Version: December 2017
Volunteer Lawyers Network
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit—English
Minnesota—2017
(Para propósitos de tener una copia en español-no para uso legal)
DELEGACIÓN DE PODERES DE PADRE
Código de Minnesota § 524.5-211
ESTADO DE MINNESOTA )
) ss.
CONDADO DE HENNEPIN )
1. Yo, _____________________, del Condado de _____________, Estado de Minnesota, soy madre/padre de
_____________________________, nacido el ______del mes de ________de ________.
2.
Designo por este medio a ________________________, del Condado de _______________, Estado de
Minnesota, ser “Apoderado Notarial” para el ejercicio de la custodia legal y física sobre mi menor hijo/a,
_______________________, hasta ____________________________________(fecha hasta un año de la
fecha de firmar) de conformidad con el Código de Minnesota
§ 524.5-211.
3. Este “Poder Notarial” constituye mi delegación a ________________________ para ejercer derechos de custodia
legal y física sobre mi menor hijo/a, incluyendo, pero no limitado a:
a. autorizar tratamiento médico;
b. registrarle a mi meno hijo/a en la escuela;
c. proporcionar alimentación, alojamiento, y supervisión a mi menor hijo/a en la casa de
____________________; y
d. autorizar viaje nacional y/o internacional de mi menor hijo/a.
Este “Poder Notarial” no autoriza consentimiento para el matrimonio y/o la adopción de mi hijo/a,
___________________.
Yo, __________________________, comprendo que tengo la obligación legal, bajo el Código de Minnesota
§
524.5-211 (b), de enviar por correo o dar una copia de este documento al otro padre/madre de mi menor hijo adentro de
un periodo de 30 días posterior de su ejecución, a menos que:
a.
el otro padre/madre no tenga derechos de visita o si tiene derechos de visita supervisada; o
b.
Exista una orden de protección bajo Capitulo 518B de la ley de Minnesota o una ley semejante de
cualquier otro estado en efecto en su contra.
EN TESTIMONIO DE LO CUAL y EN PLENO USO DE MIS FACULTADES, firmo este documento el día _____del mes
______________de 2017.
__________________________________________
Firma del padre/Madre/Tutor Legal
__________________________________________
Nombre en letra de molde del padre/madre/tutor Legal
Suscrito y jurado ante mi
Ese ______día de ______, 20____.
_____________________________
Notario Público
Por este medio, acepto la delegación de poder sobre___________________________________.
_______________________________________
Firma del “Apoderado Notarial”
_______________________________________
Nombre en letra de molde del padre/madre/tutor Legal
Th
e information in this toolkit is adapted from a variety of local and national
resources. This information is not legal advice. For answers to individual legal
questions, you may want to consult with a lawyer. For a complete list of sources
please contact VLN at (612) 752-6677.
Page 16 – English Version
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit
Latest Version: December 2017
Volunteer Lawyers Network
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit—English
Minnesota—2017
CHILD’S INFORMATION/INFORMACION DEL NIÑO
First and Middle Names/
Nombre(s):
Last Name(s)/
Apellidos:
Date of Birth/Fecha de Nacimiento:
Month/mes: ________ Day/día: _________ Year/año: _________
Complete Address/
Dirección Completa:
Telephone Number/# de Teléfono
Siblings (first and last names)/
Hermanos (nombres y apellidos)
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
EMERGENCY CONTACTS IN CASE PARENTS ARE UNAVAILABLE /
CONTACTO DE EMERGENCIA EN CASO DE QUE LOS PADRES NO ESTÉN DISPONIBLES
Designated Caregiver (DOPA) /
Personas designada como el
guardián legal
Name/Nombre y Apellido:
Address/Dirección:
Apt. City/Ciudad:
Zip/Código Postal:
Telefono/No. de Teléfono:
Text Message/No. para textear:
Email/Correo Electrónico:
Alternate person to contact /
Otra persona para contactar
Name/Nombre y Apellido:
Address/Dirección:
Apt. City/Ciudad:
Zip/Código Postal:
Telefono/No. de Teléfono:
Text Message/No. para textear:
Email/Correo Electrónico:
INFORMATION SHEET
/HOJA INFORMATIVA 4.01D
-
Eng/Esp (2 pages)
:
Emergency and Other Contact Sheet for Each Child
Contactos de Emergencia y Otros Contactos para Cada Hijo
Complete this form for each child./Complete una hoja para cada hijo.
Th
e information in this toolkit is adapted from a variety of local and national
resources. This information is not legal advice. For answers to individual legal
questions, you may want to consult with a lawyer. For a complete list of sources
please contact VLN at (612) 752-6677.
Page 17 – English Version
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit
Latest Version: December 2017
Volunteer Lawyers Network
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit—English
Minnesota—2017
FAMILY CONTACTOS / CONTACTOS DE FAMILIARES
Mother / La Madre
Complete Name/Nombre(s) y Apellido(s):
Current Address / Dirección Actual:
Cell Number / Número Celular:
Home Number / Número de Casa:
Work Number / Número de Trabajo:
Father / El Padre
Complete Name/Nombre(s) y Apellido(s):
Current Address / Dirección Actual:
Cell Number / Número Celular:
Home Number / Número de Casa:
Work Number / Número de Trabajo:
CONT
ACT INFORMATION FOR ADULT RELATIVES, FRIENDS, NEIGHBORS /
INFORMACION DE CONTACTO PARA FAMILIARES, AMIGOS, VECINOS
Adult Siblings / Hermanos Adultos
Grandparents / Abuelos
Aunts, Uncles, Cousins/
Tios y Primos
Family Friends /
Amigos
Neighbors / Vecinos
OTHER IMPORTANT EMERGENCY NUMBERS / OTROS CONTACTOS DE EMERGENCIA IMPORTANTE
General Number / No. General
911
Police / La Policia
Fire Department / Los Bomberos
Poison Control / En Caso de En
venenación
911
Th
e information in this toolkit is adapted from a variety of local and national
resources. This information is not legal advice. For answers to individual legal
questions, you may want to consult with a lawyer. For a complete list of sources
please contact VLN at (612) 752-6677.
Page 18 – English Version
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit
Latest Version: December 2017
Volunteer Lawyers Network
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit—English
Minnesota—2017
CHILD’S INFORMATION/INFORMACION DEL NIÑO
First and Middle Names/ Nombre(s):
Last Name(s)/Apellidos:
Date of Birth/Fecha de Nacimiento:
Month/mes: ________ Day/día: _________ Year/año: ________
MEDICAL INFORMATION/
INFORMACION MEDICA
Name of Doctor or Medical
Practice/Nombre y Apellido del
Médico y/o la clínica Médica:
Name/Nombre y Apellido:
Address/Dirección::
Telephone #/# de teléfono:
Date of Last Physical Exam/Fecha
de último exámen medico:
Imp
ortant Medical Conditions of
Child/condiciones médicas
importantes:
Medication(s) taken by
child/medicamentos que toma el
niño o recetados:
Name/Nombre:
Reason medicine is taken/Motivo para el medicamento:
Dose and Frequency/dósis y frecuencia:
Allergies/alergias:
Name of Dentist or Dental
Practice/nombre y apellido del
dentista y/o su clínica:
Name/Nombre y Apellido:
Address/Dirección::
Telephone #/# de teléfono:
Date of Last Dental Exam/Fecha de
último exámen dental:
Ongo
ing Dental
Treatment/Tratamiento Actual:
Name of Eye Doctor or Practice, if
any/Nombre y Apellido del oculista
y/o la clínica del oculista, si
hubiera:
Name/Nombre y Apellido:
Address/Dirección::
Telephone #/# de teléfono:
Ongoing eye treatmen
t/
Tratamiento ocular:
INFORMATION SHEET
/HOJA INFORMATIV
A 4.01E
-
Eng/Esp (2 pages)
:
Important Information Sheet for Each Child
Información Importante para Cada Hijo
Complete this form for each child./Complete una hoja para cada hijo.
Th
e information in this toolkit is adapted from a variety of local and national
resources. This information is not legal advice. For answers to individual legal
questions, you may want to consult with a lawyer. For a complete list of sources
please contact VLN at (612) 752-6677.
Page 19 – English Version
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit
Latest Version: December 2017
Volunteer Lawyers Network
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit—English
Minnesota—2017
SCHOOL INFORMATION/INFORMACIÓN DE LA ESCUELA
Name, Address, and Phone
Number of School/Nombre,
direccion y # de telefono de la
escuela:
Name/Nombre y Apellido:
Address/Dirección::
Telephone #/# de teléfono:
Grade and Te
acher or
Guidance Counsel/Ano escolar
y nombre del maestro o
consejero principal:
Grade/Ano Escobar:
Teacher-Counselor/Maestro-Consejero:
Special Educational Services, if
any/Servicios especiales
educativos:
Medications Child Receives at
School, if any/Medicamentos
que toma durante el dia
escolar:
Extracurricular Activities AT
School and instructors/
Actividades extra-curriculares
EN la escuela y los
instructores:
Extracurricular Activities
OUTSIDE of School and
instructors / Actividades extra-
curriculares AFUERA de la
escuela y los instructores:
OTHER INFORMATION/OTRA INFORMACI
Ó
N
Name, Address, and Phone
Number of Church/Nombre,
direccion y telefono de la
iglesia:
Church Activities/Actividades
en la iglesia:
HELPFUL THINGS TO KNOW/INFORMACIÓN DE INTERÉS
Favorite Foods/Comida
preferida:
Food Allergies/Alergias a la
comida:
Bedtime/Hora de acostarse:
Favorite Toys, Books, and
Activities/Juguetes, libros y
actividades favoritos:
Restrictions/restricciones:
Th
e information in this toolkit is adapted from a variety of local and national
resources. This information is not legal advice. For answers to individual legal
questions, you may want to consult with a lawyer. For a complete list of sources
please contact VLN at (612) 752-6677.
Page 20 – English Version
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit
Latest Version: December 2017
Volunteer Lawyers Network
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit—English
Minnesota—2017
1. SAMPLE LETTER ONE: for the person to whom you delegated parental authority in case you
are detained or unavailable.
Dear_________________________,
Please keep this sheet with you or somewhere you can find it immediately. If you learn that I have
been detained, please get my children right away. If you cannot locate my children, contact the
______________________ County Social Services office at __________________. Tell them the
names of my children, your name and phone number, that you have a Delegation of Parental Authority
by parent. Thank you.
__________________________________________
Name and Signature of Parent
2. SAMPLE LETTER TWO: for a friend or relative to contact the person to whom you delegated
parental authority in case you are detained or unavailable.
Dear ________________,
Please keep this sheet with you or somewhere you can find it immediately. If you learn that I have
been detained, please call _______________________ , whose phone number is______________, as
soon as possible to let her know. S/he is the designated caretaker for my child/children. If my children
have been taken into custody, tell him/her to contact the _________________County Social Services
office, and that she should tell them the names of my children, her name and phone number, that she
has a Delegation of Powers by parent. Thank you.
_____________________________________
Name and Signature of Parent
SAMPLE LETTERS/CARTAS EJEMPLARES 4.01F
-
Eng/Esp (2 pages)
:
To Give to Temporary Custodian of Child
Para Entregar al Tutor Temporal del Niño
Complete this form for each child./Complete una hoja para cada hijo.
Th
e information in this toolkit is adapted from a variety of local and national
resources. This information is not legal advice. For answers to individual legal
questions, you may want to consult with a lawyer. For a complete list of sources
please contact VLN at (612) 752-6677.
Page 21 – English Version
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit
Latest Version: December 2017
Volunteer Lawyers Network
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit—English
Minnesota—2017
3. SAMPLE LETTER THREE: for an emergency contact if you have not delegated a temporary
custodian for your child, but you expect that your emergency contact person will be willing to care
for your children or will find some other reliable person willing to care for your children.
Dear__________________________,
Please keep this sheet with you or somewhere you can find it immediately. If you learn that I have
been detained and are willing take care of my children, please pick up my children as soon as you can.
There are envelopes with important information about my children located ______________________.
If my children have been taken into custody, please contact the ___________________ County Social
Services office, and give them the names of my children, your name and phone number, and that you
are willing to care for my children. If you are unable to care for my children, but you know of a
trusted adult willing to care from my children, please give them this same information. Thank you.
_________________________________________
Name and Signature of Parent
Th
e information in this toolkit is adapted from a variety of local and national
resources. This information is not legal advice. For answers to individual legal
questions, you may want to consult with a lawyer. For a complete list of sources
please contact VLN at (612) 752-6677.
Page 22 – English Version
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit
Latest Version: December 2017
Volunteer Lawyers Network
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit—English
Minnesota—2017
What is a passport?
A passport is an official document issued by the government of a country that identifies someone as a citizen
of that country. It is usually needed for travel, when entering or leaving a country.
How do I get a passport?
If you are a U.S. citizen, you can apply for a passport at one of the passport acceptance facilities. Passport
acceptance facilities include your local government center and U.S. post offices. Some locations are listed on
this handout and others can be found on the internet at https://iafdb.travel.state.gov/
You will need:
• To fill out a passport application form (DS-11)
• To have proof of your U.S. citizenship (your U.S. birth certificate or Certificate of Citizenship or
Naturalization)
• An ID
• A passport photo
• The fee to pay for it.
If you are not a U.S. citizen, you need to contact the embassy or consulate of your home country to find out
how to get a passport. Contact information for various consulates appears at the end of this handout.
What information do I generally need to fill out a passport application form?
Generally, to fill out a passport application form the applicant will need information such as: Legal name and
other names used, date of birth, sex, place of birth, social security number (if for a USA passport), contact
information, mailing address, parental information such as dates and places of birth, marital information,
physical information, travel information, emergency contact, former passport numbers and dates, etc.
How do I get a passport for my minor child?
If your child was born in your home country, you need to contact the embassy or consulate of your home
country to find out how to get a passport. Contact information for various consulates appears at the end/other
handout.
If your child was born in the United States, then a parent can apply for a U.S. passport for the child. Usually
both parents must appear in person at a passport acceptance facility (U.S. Passport Office, U.S. Post Office, or
certain other government centers), but there are exceptions. If only one parent is named on the birth
certificate, then that parent can apply by herself for the minor child’s passport.
What documents do I need to apply for my child’s passport?
To apply for your child’s passport, you will need:
• The passport application form (DS-11)
• An original or certified copy of the child’s U.S. birth certificate (you can request a certified copy of your
child’s birth certificate from the Vital Records office of the county that is closest to you; a hospital birth
record will not be sufficient) or adoption decree showing you are the legal parent (plus another copy
of either of those documents)
INFORMATION SHEET:
4.02G-Eng-Passport Information
Th
e information in this toolkit is adapted from a variety of local and national
resources. This information is not legal advice. For answers to individual legal
questions, you may want to consult with a lawyer. For a complete list of sources
please contact VLN at (612) 752-6677.
Page 23 – English Version
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit
Latest Version: December 2017
Volunteer Lawyers Network
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit—English
Minnesota—2017
• Your government-issued ID such as your own valid, unexpired passport or consulate ID (“matricula”)
(plus another copy)
• A passport photo of the child (many passport acceptance facilities provide photo services for an
additional fee)
What if only one parent can apply in person but both parents are named on the birth certificate?
If the other parent has died or if you have a court order that grants you sole legal and physical custody of the
child with no travel restrictions, then you can apply by yourself for the passport. You will need a copy of the
death certificate or the court order granting sole legal and physical custody.
If you do not have such a court order and only one parent can appear in person to apply for a passport, you
need to bring a special notarized letter called a “Statement of Consent” (DS-3053) that is signed by the other
parent and gives permission for you to apply alone for the child’s passport.
What if I cannot find the other parent or get them to sign the Statement of Consent?
If both parent’s names appear on the child’s birth certificate but it is not possible to get a Statement of
Consent from the other parent, you can fill out a Form DS-5525 “Statement Of Exigent/Special Family
Circumstances For Issuance Of A U.S. Passport To A Minor Under Age 16” to explain why you cannot get the
other parent’s statement of consent. Filling out this form does not guarantee that the passport will be issued.
If the other parent has been deported and you have a copy of the deportation order, then you should include a
copy when you file the form.
What if they do not give me a passport after filling out the Statement of Exigent/Special Family
Circumstances?
Then you may need to consult a family law attorney for help in getting a court order. Examples of court orders
include an order that terminates the parental rights of the other parent, an order that grants you sole legal and
physical custody with no travel restrictions, a court order authorizing you to get a passport for the child
regardless of the custodial arrangement or that specifically authorizes travel with you; or a “Declaratory
Judgement” allowing you to get a passport for the child.
If you already have a custody or parenting time order, you can ask the court to change (“modify”) the order.
Where may I get the official passport forms for free?
You may access the official U.S. Department of State free passport-related forms for free at
https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/passports/forms.html
__________________________________________________________________________________________
If you want free help to create a family emergency plan and live in Minnesota call VLN at (621) 752-6677 for
more information. / Si Ud. desea ayuda gratuita para crear un plan de emergencia para su familia y vive en
Minnesota, llame a La Red de Abogados Voluntarios al (612) 752-6677 para más información.
Important Information f
or Hennepin County residents
:
The court’s self-help service center will help single mothers apply for a court order allowing you to apply
for a passport for your minor child. To get help to do this visit the:
Family Justice Center
110 South 4th Street, 1st Floor
Minneapolis, MN 55401
(612) 596-8519 (recording); (612) 596-1067 to schedule an appointment
Hours: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. (closed holidays)
Th
e information in this toolkit is adapted from a variety of local and national
resources. This information is not legal advice. For answers to individual legal
questions, you may want to consult with a lawyer. For a complete list of sources
please contact VLN at (612) 752-6677.
Page 24 – English Version
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit
Latest Version: December 2017
Volunteer Lawyers Network
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit—English
Minnesota—2017
Some U.S. Passport Acceptance Facilities in Minnesota (for U.S. Citizens) (incomplete and subject to change):
Dakota County
—
Western Center
14955 Galaxie Avenue West
Apple Valley, MN 55124
952-891-7570
Faribault County
415 N. Main Street
Blue Earth, MN 56013
507-526-6252
U.S. Post Office Carver County
317 Broadway Street
Carver, MN 55315
952-448-6363
Carver
County Service Center
7808 Kerber Blvd.
Chanhassen, MN 55317
952-361-3900
Washington County Service Center
-
Cottage Grove
13000 Ravine Parkway
Cottage Grove, MN 55016
651-430-4065
Dakota County Administration Center
1590 Highway 55
Hastings, MN 55033
651-438-4576
Minneapolis Main Post Office
100 South 1
st
Street, Room 106
Minneapolis, MN 55401
612-349-4713
City of Richfield
6700 Portland Avenue South
Richfield, MN 55423
612-861-9730
Scott County Recorder
200 Fourth Avenue West
Shakopee, MN 55379
952-496-8150
Watonwan County Recorder
710 2
nd
Avenue South
St. James, MN 56081
507-375-1216
Marshall County Assessor Office
208 E. Colvin Avenue
Warren, MN 56762
218-745-5331
U.S. Post Office Worthington
850 10
th
Street
Worthington, MN 56187
507-376-4870
Anoka County Passport Center
-
Coon Rapids
Passports
455 99
th
Avenue NW
Coon Rapids, MN 55433
763-323-5777
For emergency travel*
Minneapolis Passport Agency
United States Federal Building
212 3rd Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55401
1-877-487-2778 call for appointment
*travel in less than 2 weeks or need to get foreign
visa within 4 weeks; need:
• Appointment confirmation number
• proof of international travel
• completed forms and supporting documents
Th
e information in this toolkit is adapted from a variety of local and national
resources. This information is not legal advice. For answers to individual legal
questions, you may want to consult with a lawyer. For a complete list of sources
please contact VLN at (612) 752-6677.
Page 25 – English Version
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit
Latest Version: December 2017
Volunteer Lawyers Network
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkit—English
Minnesota—2017
Latin American Consulates for Minnesotans or persons living in MN (subject to change):
Consulado de Mexico
797 7th St E, St Paul, MN 55106
www.consulmex.sre.gob.mx
(651) 771-5494
Consulado de Ecuador
Mississippi National River and Recreation Area
43 SE Main St #135, Minneapolis, MN 55414
www.minneapolis.consulado.gob.ec
(612) 721
-
6468
El Salvador
177 North State Street 2do. Piso Mezzanine, Chicago,
Illinois, 60601.
Teléfono: 13123321393/13125785390
Email: [email protected]v
Website:
http://consuladochicago.rree.gob.sv
Consulado General de Guatemala
5559 N. Elston Ave, Suite 100, Chicago, IL 60630
www.conschicago.minex.gob.gt
(312) 540-0781
Colombia
500 N. Michigan Avenue, Suite 1960
Chicago, IL 60611
312-923-1196
http://chicago.consulado.gov.co/
Honduras
4506 W. Fullerton Ave
Chicago IL 60639
(773) 342.8281
Peru
180 North Michigan Avenue, Suite 401
Chicago, IL 60601
312-782-1599
http://www.consulado.pe/es/Chicago/Paginas/Inicio.aspx
Panama
2862 McGill Terrace, NW
Washington, DC 20008
(202) 483 1407
http://www.embassyofpanama.org
Costa Rica
30 N Michigan Avenue, Suite 1922
Chicago, IL,60602
Tel.: (312) 470-0282 / (312) 577-4267
Email: [email protected]
Argentina
205 N Michigan Ave, Ste 4209
Chicago IL 60601
Estados Unidos
Teléfono local: (312) 819.2610
Ve
nezuela
20 N Wacker Drive, Suite No. 1925
Chicago, IL 60606
(312) 324-0907
http://embavenez-us.org/_chicago/
Chile
1415 N. Dayton St., 2nd floor
Chicago, IL 60642
Estados Unidos
Telefono local: (312) 654.8780
http://chileabroad.gov.cl/chicago/
Paraguay
2400 Massachusetts Avenue N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20008
(202) 483-6960
http://www.mre.gov.py/Sitios/Home/Index/embaparusa/
Uruguay
John Hancock Center
875 N. Michigan Avenue Suite 1318
Chicago , IL 60611
(312) 642 3430
http://www.uruguaychicago.org
Bolivia
1825 Connecticut Avenue N.W. Suite 200C
Washington, DC 20009
(202) 232
-
4827 / 4828
