This is especially true in today’s fast-paced world where being updated is an essential ingredient for success. This holds for numerous aspects including the legal ones. These are the following are the guidelines for non-citizens in the United States that have deportation (removal) cases: What roles are important in deportation (removal) cases – It is important for non-citizens that are in the United States to keep track of the status of their case. In this article, I will guide you on how you can use the toll-free automated telephone line formed by EOIR to monitor on progress of the immigration court.
Why Staying Informed Matters
The U. S immigration court system has long had to face a massive backlog of cases dealing with deportations. This backlog has given much room for confusion and tensed-up emotions for anyone getting to face removal proceedings. As a candidate, it is helpful to be aware of how they fit into the pipeline of hearings and when they might sit for a session before an IJ. Fortunately, the EOIR has given you a way of using this very necessary tool to get the information that you need.
Accessing the EOIR Immigration Court Information Line
To get up-to-date information about your immigration case, you can use the toll-free automated phone line provided by the EOIR. This service specifically caters to individuals with pending cases in immigration court or at the Board of Immigration Appeals (B.I.A.), distinguishing it from general immigration customer service numbers.
The Phone Number
The first step is to dial 1-800-898-7180. This number is available theoretically around the clock, seven days a week, although there may be occasional unavailability due to system maintenance.
Navigating the Phone System
Upon dialling, the automated system will prompt you to select your preferred language:
For English, press 1
For Spanish, press 2
After selecting your language, you will be asked to enter your unique nine-digit identification number, known as your A-number. You can find this A-number on most of your court documents, including your Notice to Appear (NTA), which initiates the removal process. If your A-number consists of only eight digits, begin by entering a “0.”
Exploring Your Case Information
Once you’ve been assigned a court date, the system will spell out your name and ask you to confirm by pressing 1. Confirm your identity to access your information. From here, you have several options:
Next Hearing Date
If you press 1, the system will provide detailed information about your next scheduled date in immigration court. This includes whether it’s a preliminary (“master calendar”) hearing or a final (“individual” or “merits”) hearing, the date and time of the hearing, the name of your judge, and the hearing location.
Case Processing Information
Pressing 2 is useful if you are applying for asylum. The system will provide information about your asylum clock, which is vital for employment eligibility. If you haven’t filed an asylum application, the system will indicate that there is no clock.
Decision Information
Pressing 3 will reveal the current status of your removal case. If your case is still ongoing in court, the system will state that it’s pending. However, if the judge has made a decision, the system will announce either “granted relief” (meaning you received what you asked for) or “ordered removal” (indicating removal from the United States). The system won’t specify the type of relief granted, but examples include voluntary departure, asylum, and cancellation of removal. In some cases, the system might mention that the judge administratively closed your case, signifying a temporary hold due to various reasons.
Case Appeal Information
If you press 4, the system will provide details on any appeals filed with the Board of Immigration Appeals (B.I.A.). Your case is still in immigration court, option 4 won’t have any information. If you file an appeal with the B.I.A., the system will inform you of the date you filed the appeal and the deadlines for legal briefs. Keep in mind that there are typically no in-person hearings before the B.I.A., so it’s crucial to meet the brief submission deadlines to support your appeal effectively.
Filing Information
Should you press 5, the system will provide you with the address of the court where your case is pending. This information is valuable if you need to submit documents or applications related to your case.
Taking Action
If information is missing from the system or differs from other notices you’ve received, it’s advisable to contact the specific immigration court handling your case directly. Nevertheless, having access to the EOIR Immigration Court Information Line can significantly enhance your ability to stay informed and make informed decisions about your immigration case.
Seek Legal Guidance
If you find yourself in deportation proceedings or have received an order of deportation and are unsure about your next steps, it’s wise to consult with an experienced immigration attorney promptly. An immigration attorney can provide valuable guidance and explore potential options to address your situation effectively.
Remember, knowledge is power. In the world of immigration law, being well-informed can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
