How to Know If You Are in Removal Proceedings

Navigating the complex U.S. immigration process can be daunting. Today, we will talk about removal proceedings and how you can know whether you are due to appear in immigration court.

Watch our YouTube video to learn how to check your status, determine whether you are in removal proceedings, and some tips for what you can do if you are.

Am I In Removal? How To Know Whether You’re In Immigration Court

Unfortunately, we see cases like this a lot, where a client found out that they missed a hearing and a judge had issued a removal order against them, and they were not aware of it. So, how can you find out if this is true for you as well?

Check Your Immigration Case Status

The best thing you can do is look up your EOIR case status on Google; this search will take you to the Automated Case Information System page on the Department of Justice website.

Follow their instructions to enter your A-Number, after which you will be able to access your case status. This will show either your upcoming hearing date and information related to it, or a decision that a judge had made in your case. If you are not in removal proceedings, you will see a little message in red letters letting you know that your case cannot be found.

You can also call the EOIR hotline at 800-898-7180 to get this information.

If you have an upcoming hearing, it is essential that you know the details of it, especially the date, time and location. You do not want to miss this hearing, because a judge can issue a removal order against you in your absence.

Who Gets Placed In Removal?

The U.S. government places immigrants in removal proceedings for many different reasons.

If you have applied for asylum but USCIS does not approve your asylum case, they will refer your case to immigration court for a judge to review and consider. If your status expires, that will also place you at risk of being put into removal. In addition to this, you are at risk of removal if you have marriage fraud or other serious immigration issues on your record.

What You Can Do If You Are In Removal

If you are in removal proceedings, the most important next step is to hire an experienced immigration lawyer. These cases are complicated, but there may be options available to you for relief or an appeal. Our team wants to stress the importance of keeping a cool head and partnering with a professional to maximize your chances of success, even if you are in removal. Don’t lose hope: take initiative, reach out to us for assistance, and get back on track on your immigration journey.