WHAT TO CONSIDER IF YOU HAVE BEEN PLACED IN REMOVAL PROCEEDINGS
The purpose of a deportation (removal) hearing is for an immigration judge to determine whether the person summoned to court (the “respondent”) can remain in the United States legally. There are at least three things to keep in mind if you have been placed in removal proceedings.
First, although you have a right to be represented by an attorney, the government is under no obligation to provide you with one. There is no “public defender” for immigration deportation hearings. Therefore, it is up to you to hire an immigration attorney to represent you.
Second, you must attend all of your immigration hearings. Failure to appear (unless justified by extraordinary circumstances) will result in the Court issuing a deportation order against you. And at that point, ICE can arrest and ultimately remove you from the U.S. at anytime. So even if you have not retained an attorney, you must still appear for your immigration hearing.
Third, because there is so much at stake in removal proceedings, you should consult with a licensed attorney with particular experience and expertise in removal defense to explore your options and how best to avoid deportation. You want an attorney who regularly appears in immigration court and is familiar with the judges and government attorneys.
If you or a family member have been placed in removal proceedings, contact us now to schedule a consultation so we can explore all potential defenses and options for relief.
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