Removal proceedings are formal court cases in which the federal government seeks to deport a non-citizen from the United States. They are heard before immigration judges in the Executive Office for Immigration Review. The Chicago Immigration Court hears matters from across northern Illinois.
In removal proceedings, the burden is generally on the respondent to establish eligibility for any form of relief. There is no constitutional right to appointed counsel. Without an attorney, most respondents lose.
Forms of relief from removal.
Cancellation of removal for lawful permanent residents and for non-lawful-permanent-residents who meet specific durational and good moral character requirements. Asylum, withholding of removal, and Convention Against Torture protection. Adjustment of status where an underlying petition is approved. Voluntary departure to preserve future immigration options. Termination of proceedings where the charges are not sustained.
Detained cases.
For respondents in ICE detention, the firm prioritizes bond hearings to seek release while the case is pending. Detained docket hearings move quickly. Preparation cannot wait.
Pleadings and master calendar.
The first hearing in a removal case is typically a master calendar hearing, where the respondent admits or denies the allegations in the Notice to Appear and identifies any relief sought. Concessions and admissions made at master calendar are often binding for the rest of the case. Counsel matters from the first appearance.
Appeals.
Decisions of the immigration judge can be appealed to the Board of Immigration Appeals and, in many cases, to the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit. The firm handles appeals where they are warranted.
Who This Is For
- Respondents who have received a Notice to Appear
- Detained respondents seeking bond and relief
- Lawful permanent residents in removal proceedings
- Long-term residents pursuing cancellation
- Cases on appeal to the BIA or Seventh Circuit
Why Work With This Firm
- Experience before Chicago Immigration Court
- Detained docket representation
- Coordinated criminal and immigration analysis
- Bond and merits hearings handled by the same attorney
- Appellate experience when needed