What Happens During A Bond Hearing Inside An Immigration Court

It is a frightening experience to be detained by United States immigration officers from Office of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). If you find yourself in such a predicament, your top most priority will be getting released from the detention facility with an immigration bond.

Immigration bond hearing

Do note that bond hearing is different from Master Calendar Hearing. Both of them happens at the same day. The bond hearing happens before the Master Calendar Hearing. As you are stuck in custody, the immigration officials will take you to the hearing. In case you get detained at a facility which has an onsite immigration facility, you can be physically present inside the courtroom for the hearing. If you are locked in a facility which lacks an immigration court, you will communicate through video link which goes to the specific courtroom. You can also be taken by bus to immigration court.

You will not be handcuffed when you will be led into the courtroom. However, you will wear clothes which is issued by the government. Security guards will also monitor your movements. You will be told by security where you will sit for your turn to get a hearing. Your family members and friends will not be permitted to interact with you. You can talk only to your attorney.

Bond eligibility

The Immigration Judge (IJ) will at first review your US immigration status and ensure that you are bond eligible. The IJ will then decide whether you will be granted a bond. Do understand that this decision is entirely at the hands of the IJ. Even if you are eligible for one, the IJ can still take the decision to not give you one. The official will take into account the evidence in the record to find whether you pose any danger to the security and safety of United States. Any qualifications for relief from removal will also be considered.