If a U.S. government agent harmed you while doing their job, you may be able to sue. A law called the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) gives you this option.
This includes agents like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers or Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents. If you win or reach a settlement (an agreement on payment), you may get damages (money) from the government.
What kinds of harm does it cover?
- Unlawful detention (being held illegally)
- Wrongful deportation
- Physical or psychological abuse
- Medical neglect
- Family separation
How does it work?
There are two steps:
- File a formal complaint with the agency that employed the agent who harmed you. You must do this within two years of when the harm began.
- If the agency does not offer a settlement within six months, you can file a lawsuit in federal court.
You do not need to be in the United States to file. Some lawyers take these cases for free (pro bono). Filing an FTCA claim is separate from your immigration case, but the two can affect each other. Always speak with a lawyer before you start.
See the full guide below for more details on the process, deadlines, and what to expect.
Last Reviewed: May 6, 2026