INFORMATION REGARDING NON-DETAINED HEARINGS
All non-detained hearings scheduled through May 29, 2020, have been postponed.
INFORMATION REGARDING MIGRANT PROTECTION PROTOCOLS (MPP) HEARINGS
The Departments of Justice and Homeland Security continue to take necessary measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 by limiting in-person interaction. To this end, the Departments have made the following adjustments to the temporary postponement of Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP) hearings. Beginning May 10th, in-person document service will be suspended immediately until June 8th, alleviating the need for aliens to travel within Mexico to a U.S. port of entry during this one-month suspension period. DHS and EOIR are deeply committed to ensuring the health and safety of aliens, our frontline officers, immigration court professionals, and our citizens. All MPP hearings will remain postponed through, and including, June 19th. Individuals with a hearing date prior to June 22nd should present themselves at the port of entry identified on their tear sheet one month later than the date indicated on their most recently noticed date. For example, if the hearing date is May 10th, individuals should present themselves on June 10th. For individuals with a hearing date of June 22nd or after, there is no change in procedures and individuals should report as instructed on their tear sheets.
The Departments are committed to proceeding with MPP hearings as expeditiously as possible and will continue to review conditions related to COVID-19 to make further determinations as necessary. For updated information on immigration courts in English and Spanish please visit: portal.eoir.justice.gov/infosystem or call 1-800-898-7180.
Banking agencies have elevated the importance of the treatment of CSI by emphasizing concerns in enforcement actions and by issuing guidance and rules, but have not provided consistent and coherent definitions and guidance across the industry.
What Rights Do Individuals Have in Immigration Court?
Individuals facing removal proceedings in immigration court have specific rights designed to ensure a fair process. These rights are vital in navigating the complexities of immigration law and seeking relief from deportation.
First, individuals have the right to be represented by an attorney or representative at their own expense. While the government does not provide free legal counsel, access to a qualified immigration lawyer can significantly impact the outcome of the case.
During hearings, individuals have the right to present evidence and testify in person. They can submit documents that support their application for relief and counter the charges against them. The immigration judge must consider all submitted evidence before making a decision.
Individuals are entitled to a fair and impartial hearing. This means that the immigration judge, appointed by the Executive Office for Immigration Review, must remain unbiased and provide a decision based solely on the facts and law.
Additionally, individuals have the right to an interpreter if they do not speak English. The court provides an interpreter to ensure clear communication during proceedings.
Individuals can also request a change of venue if they need their case heard in a different immigration court location. This can be important for those who move or have specific reasons for needing a different court.
If the immigration judge’s decision is unfavorable, individuals have the right to appeal to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA). This review process allows for a higher authority to examine the case and ensure proper legal standards were applied.
Finally, individuals must be notified of the date, time, and location of their hearings. Failure to receive proper notice can affect their rights and the validity of the proceedings.
Understanding these rights is crucial for anyone navigating the immigration court system. Access to legal representation, the ability to present evidence, and the right to an impartial hearing are fundamental protections in the pursuit of justice.