Do you have an immigration court date? The truth about your hearing.

paola vanessa romero rondon
15 minutes ago
4 min read

Receiving a letter with a date to appear before an immigration judge is one of the most stressful moments for any immigrant. It is normal to feel afraid, nervous, and have many doubts.

One of the most common questions we hear is, "If I go to my hearing, does that mean I am safe and will not be deported?"

The short answer is: Not automatically. The reality is a little more complicated, and it is vital that you understand it in order to protect your future and that of your family. Here we explain it to you in a simple and clear way.

The Truth: Attending does not automatically mean winning.

Many people think that simply showing up in court on the appointed day and time is enough to "fix" their situation.

It is true that going shows that you are a responsible person and that you comply with the law. However, showing up only keeps your case alive. It does not mean that the judge has already approved your papers or that he or she is going to grant you residency.

When standing before the judge, what happens is that he or she has the authority to:

Review your history and your tests.

Listen to why you think you should stay in the United States.

Decide whether you comply with the laws to remain or whether you should receive a deportation order.

What happens if I do NOT go to court?

This is where you need to be very careful. Although going to court does not guarantee you will win, missing the appointment guarantees you will lose.

If you do not appear at your hearing, the judge will automatically issue a deportation order in absentia. This means that the judge orders you to be removed from the country simply because you were not there to defend yourself.

Golden rule: Never miss your appointment, even if you are afraid. Missing it is the worst thing you can do for your case.

Being present does not eliminate risk.

It is important to be honest: you can go to your appointment, behave well, arrive early, and still receive a deportation order.

Why? Because the judge does not make a decision based on whether you were polite or punctual. The judge makes a decision based on the law and the evidence. If the judge considers that your application does not meet the necessary legal requirements, they may deny your case and order you to leave the country.

This does not happen "because you went," it happens because of the legal outcome of your case.

The key to success: arrive prepared

Immigration court is not a place to improvise or see "what happens." It is a serious court where your future is decided.

To have a real chance of staying in the United States, it is not enough to simply "show up." You need a defense strategy. This includes:

Have a clear plan: Know exactly what immigration benefit you are requesting (asylum, cancellation of deportation, etc.).

Bring solid evidence: Documents that support everything you say.

Tell your story well: Your testimony should be clear and truthful.

Don't go alone

Every case is different. What worked for your neighbor may not work for you. Factors such as when you arrived, your history in your country, and your family ties here are very important.

Appearing in court is an act of responsibility, but preparing yourself with knowledge and professional support is an act of protection. Don't leave your future to chance. Seek expert legal help so you can arrive at that hearing ready to fight for your life in this country.

SOURCE: El Nuevo Herald

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the new immigration fees:

1. If I go to court, can they arrest me right there?

This is everyone's main fear. Generally, if you don't have a serious criminal record and you are complying with the process, the purpose of the hearing is not to detain you, but to review your case. However, every situation is unique, and you should always consult with your lawyer before going.

2. What should I do if I don't have a lawyer for my first hearing?

Even if you do not have a lawyer, you must appear in court. At the first hearing (called a Master Calendar Hearing), you can ask the judge for more time to find a lawyer. Most judges will give you that opportunity.

3. Can I change the date of my court appearance if I am unable to attend?

It is possible, but very difficult. You must submit a written motion to the judge explaining a very compelling reason (such as a serious medical emergency) before the date of the appointment. Do not assume that the date has been changed until the judge officially approves it.

4. What happens if I move house before the hearing?

You must notify the court of your new address immediately (using Form EOIR-33). If the court sends the summons to your old address and you do not find out about it, you may be deported for failing to appear.

Do you need a lawyer to help you obtain your papers in the United States?

At Inmigración Ok Abogados, we provide you with the help you need. We are a law firm with extensive experience in advising people like you on how to legally settle in the country.

Our company not only stands out for its professionalism and efficiency, but also offers payment facilities so that you don't feel that your dreams are out of reach due to financial barriers. Inmigración Ok Abogados is committed to you, and our main goal is to ensure that you have the best legal representation for your case.

Let us be part of your journey toward a better and safer life in the United States. Our team is ready to answer all your questions and guide you through every step of the process. Best of all, the initial review of your case is free of charge!

Don't wait any longer and take the first step toward your future in the United States. Write to us now at our WhatsApp al +1 (908) 585-4523! Our team looks forward to learning about your case and providing you with the advice you deserve. We will review your case at no cost.