Immigration Court Guide
Know Your Rights, Understand the Process
Fighting deportation with knowledge, preparation, and fierce advocacy
Yo Peleo — We Fight in Immigration Court Every Day
Facing immigration court is frightening, but you don't have to face it alone. With 30,000+ cases won and decades of courtroom experience, Vasquez Law Firm stands with you. We know these judges, we know these prosecutors, and most importantly — we know how to win.
⚠️ Critical: Never Ignore Court Notices
Missing even one hearing can result in automatic deportation orders. If you receive any document from immigration court, contact an attorney immediately. Time limits are strict and missing deadlines can permanently harm your case.
Your Rights in Immigration Court
Right to an Attorney
At your own expense - government doesn't provide one
Right to an Interpreter
Court must provide free interpretation in your language
Right to Review Evidence
You can see government's evidence against you
Right to Present Evidence
Submit documents, witnesses, and testimony
Right to Appeal
Appeal unfavorable decisions to BIA
Right to Apply for Relief
Explore all forms of relief from removal
Remember: You Have Rights Even If Undocumented
The Constitution protects everyone in the U.S., regardless of immigration status.
Types of Immigration Court Hearings
Master Calendar Hearing
Your first appearance in immigration court
Timeline: Usually 1-2 months after NTA
What Happens:
- •Judge explains your rights
- •You enter pleadings to charges
- •Set schedule for case
- •Request bond if detained
- •Apply for relief from removal
Pro Tips:
- ✓Never miss this hearing
- ✓Bring all documents
- ✓Request interpreter if needed
- ✓Dress professionally
- ✓Arrive early
Individual/Merits Hearing
Your full trial before the immigration judge
Timeline: 1-4 years after Master Calendar
What Happens:
- •Present your case
- •Testify under oath
- •Present witnesses
- •Submit evidence
- •Cross-examination
Pro Tips:
- ✓Prepare testimony thoroughly
- ✓Organize all evidence
- ✓Bring original documents
- ✓Practice with attorney
- ✓Be honest always
Bond Hearing
Request release from detention
Timeline: Can request immediately
What Happens:
- •Show not a flight risk
- •Show not a danger
- •Present bond sponsors
- •Provide address plan
- •Show community ties
Pro Tips:
- ✓Gather support letters
- ✓Document employment
- ✓Show family ties
- ✓Have bond money ready
- ✓Present rehabilitation evidence
Forms of Relief from Removal
Even if you're in removal proceedings, you may have options. Our attorneys will evaluate every possible form of relief and fight for the best outcome in your case.
Cancellation of Removal (Non-LPR)
Requirements:
- •10 years continuous presence
- •Good moral character
- •No disqualifying crimes
- •Exceptional hardship to USC/LPR family
Success Rate: Varies by judge (20-60%)
Cancellation of Removal (LPR)
Requirements:
- •5 years as LPR
- •7 years after admission
- •No aggravated felony
- •Merits favorable discretion
Success Rate: Higher success rate (50-70%)
Asylum
Requirements:
- •Fear of persecution
- •Based on protected ground
- •Government unable/unwilling to protect
- •Filed within one year (with exceptions)
Success Rate: Highly dependent on country
Withholding of Removal
Requirements:
- •More likely than not persecution
- •Higher standard than asylum
- •No bars apply
- •Cannot return to country
Success Rate: Lower than asylum
CAT Protection
Requirements:
- •More likely than not torture
- •By government or acquiescence
- •Cannot relocate in country
- •Even with criminal history
Success Rate: Very difficult standard
Adjustment of Status
Requirements:
- •Immediate relative petition
- •Visa immediately available
- •Admissible to U.S.
- •Merit favorable discretion
Success Rate: High if eligible
Voluntary Departure
Requirements:
- •No aggravated felony
- •Good moral character
- •Ability to pay for departure
- •Not a repeat offender
Success Rate: Often granted if eligible
Prosecutorial Discretion
Requirements:
- •Positive factors outweigh negative
- •Not enforcement priority
- •Strong equities
- •Community support
Success Rate: Rare but possible
Immigration Court Locations
Charlotte Immigration Court
401 W. Trade Street, Suite 205, Charlotte, NC 28202
📞 (704) 370-3340
👨⚖️ 6 Immigration Judges
🚗 Paid parking available nearby
Orlando Immigration Court
3535 Lawton Road, Suite 200, Orlando, FL 32803
📞 (407) 254-5244
👨⚖️ 8 Immigration Judges
🚗 Free parking available
Atlanta Immigration Court
401 W. Peachtree St NW, Suite 2600, Atlanta, GA 30308
📞 (404) 893-1100
👨⚖️ 12 Immigration Judges
🚗 Paid parking in building
What to Bring to Court
Essential Documents
- ✓Court hearing notice
- ✓Photo ID (any country)
- ✓All immigration documents
- ✓Original + copies of evidence
- ✓Birth certificates
- ✓Marriage/divorce papers
- ✓Criminal records (if any)
- ✓Tax returns
Practical Items
- ✓Arrive 30 minutes early
- ✓Dress professionally
- ✓Turn off phone in court
- ✓Bring interpreter contact
- ✓Snacks/water (long waits)
- ✓Notebook and pen
- ✓Emergency contacts
- ✓Attorney's information
Facing Immigration Court? Time Is Critical
Every day matters in immigration court. The sooner you have experienced representation, the better your chances. Don't wait — your family's future depends on acting now.
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