How to Get an Immigration Bond in Atlanta

Being among the nearly 20,000 immigrants detained at an immigration detention center by the U.S. Immigration or Customs Enforcement (ICE) can be scary, but your loved one doesn't have to go through it alone. You can ensure their release from detention while they await trial from the comfort of their own home. This is possible by getting an immigration bond.

Continue reading to learn how to get an immigration bond in Atlanta.

Locating Your Loved One

The first step is to locate your loved one in ICE custody with the online detainee locator. At the time of their detainment, they will be given a number. You can use this number to find them, or you can search by their name.

Most green card holders and undocumented individuals are eligible for release from ICE custody. However, a criminal history can make certain individuals ineligible. If the detainee has a criminal past involving possession of controlled substances, aggravated felonies, or alleged terrorism, they may not be able to get bail.

Requesting Release from Detention

It might take a few days for your loved one to appear on the locator. The paperwork takes some time and they have to be processed. Then, you will have to wait until they appear before an immigration judge. 

At their hearing, a detainee can request to be released on their own recognizance or with immigration bonds. The judge will look at more than just their criminal history. They will also consider all of your loved one's connections to the U.S., including local family members, their employment history, and how long they've previously been in the country. 

Once they make a decision, the judge will announce how much the release will cost.

Purchasing a Surety Bond

A surety bond involves three parties: the principal (the person taking out a bond), the surety (the bail bonds agency), and the obligee (the person requiring a bond for release). The down payment for an immigration bail bond is a minimum of $1,500.

Anyone located in the U.S. (a family member, a friend, etc.) can inquire about and pay for a bail bond. Once you secure the bail bond, you will have to obtain a cashier's check addressed to the Department of Homeland Security.

Make sure you keep all documentation related to taking out a bond. If your loved one attends all of their hearings and abides by the legal requirements, you will get your money back. If they skip on their bail, you lose the money that you paid towards the bail and anything that you used as collateral.

Immigration Bond in Atlanta

It's important to stay calm during this stressful time. You might be thinking that's easier said than done, but it will help the entire process go a little more smoothly. Be sure to check out our blog for more resources and information about immigration and getting released from detention.

Call 800-940-8889 at any time to learn more about acquiring an immigration bond in Atlanta.