Immigration court
A court date is a deadline, not a verdict
If you have a notice to appear or a hearing date, a lawyer can often change what happens next. The sooner we see the paper, the more options you have.
Saba and Tobias represent people in immigration court, from the first hearing to appeals. We read your notice, find out what you are charged with and explain the ways a judge can allow you to stay.
If someone you love has been detained, call us right away with their full name, date of birth and, if you have it, their A-number. We will find out where they are and what bond may be possible.
What we handle
Notices to appear and first hearings
Asylum and other protection claims
Bond hearings for people in detention
Cancellation of removal and other relief
Motions to reopen and appeals
The steps
After a notice to appear
What happens next, in the order it usually happens.
- 01
Step 1: Read the notice
It lists the charges and your first hearing. We check it for mistakes and missing dates.
- 02
Step 2: The first hearing
A short hearing where the judge asks how you respond. Never miss it: a judge can order removal if you are absent.
- 03
Step 3: Preparing your case
We gather your documents, witnesses and evidence, and decide with you which defense to raise.
- 04
Step 4: The final hearing, and after
You tell your story to a judge. If it does not go your way, there may be an appeal, and deadlines to watch.
Questions about court
I missed a hearing. Is it over?
Not always. A judge can reopen a case in some situations, and the deadlines are short. Call us today.
Can you speak with someone in detention?
Yes, by phone or in person at the detention center, depending on the facility's rules. Tell us where your relative is held.
Do I have to attend if I have a lawyer?
A lawyer can sometimes appear for you, but not always. We tell you before every date whether you must be there.
Got a paper from the government?
Call or text with the date of your hearing, and we will tell you what to do first.