Preparing for an Immigration Court Hearing in Illinois

 Posted on June 24, 2025 in Immigration

Concerns regarding due process continue to rise as ICE agents detain immigrants in Chicago immediately following their immigration court hearings. One woman, struggling to explain in Spanish why she did not have an attorney to the immigration judge, was obviously confused when the judge stated, "At the government’s request, your case was dismissed."

Less than a minute later, three men in baseball caps, dark jackets, and jeans escorted her to a room where she was told she was being detained pending deportation. The woman’s sister, obviously shaken by her sibling’s disappearance, stood in the hallway, trying to understand what was happening. This scene is being played out repeatedly in Illinois immigration courts and across the nation.

As arrest numbers have failed to meet the administration’s campaign promises, aggressive tactics like these are becoming all too familiar. Fear of arrest is causing many immigrants to skip court appearances. Unfortunately, the consequences of failing to appear in immigration court is almost as severe – the judge issues an order in absentia, which places the individual on a deportation list.  Immigrants who find themselves in this untenable situation should speak to a Bloomingdale, IL immigration lawyer.  

Understanding the Immigration Court Process in Illinois

Those who must appear before an Illinois immigration court will receive a Notice to Appear, which includes the location, jurisdiction, date, and time. There are essentially two types of immigration court hearings: master calendar and individual hearings. A master calendar hearing is like a pretrial where an immigrant and his or her lawyer go before an immigration judge and discuss the "game plan" regarding the case.

There may be allegations made in the master calendar hearing, and the immigrant will have to admit or deny those allegations. The judge will then determine whether there is relief or a solution to the situation. Master calendar hearings will continue until the case is ready for trial, which is the purpose of the individual hearing. The judge will take evidence and determine whether the issue will be resolved or the immigrant will be deported.

What to Bring and How to Prepare for Immigration Court

It is extremely important that each individual has an experienced immigration attorney with them at the hearing. A person going to an immigration court hearing should bring his or her ID, the court notice, and all immigration paperwork relevant to the case. Supporting evidence, including proof of residence, employment, family ties, and any other evidence that supports the case, should be included. It is a good idea to practice testimony with the immigration attorney to ensure it goes smoothly. Dress neatly and always be courteous to the judge and other court staff.

What Happens During an Immigration Hearing?

The judge, an ICE attorney, an interpreter, and the immigrant’s own attorney will be present. The ICE attorney will attempt to demonstrate that the immigrant has violated an immigration law. The judge will ask the immigrant about their place of residence and what documents will be submitted to remain in the U.S.

The judge will then announce a future date for the next hearing. In the past, immigrants were rarely deported at a master hearing. At a master hearing or an individual hearing, the judge will either grant relief in the form of asylum, cancellation of removal, or adjustment status, or will order removal and explain the appeals process.  

Immigrants should strive to stay informed about changes in immigration laws and their rights. They should also keep copies of all relevant documents, be respectful in all court communications, and never miss a court date unless there is a genuine emergency.

Contact a DuPage County, IL Immigration Lawyer

Speaking to a Naperville, IL immigration attorney from Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices can help relieve some of your fears, answer your questions, and help you make a plan for your immigration goals. Attorney Mevorah has been serving the needs of immigrants in Northern Illinois for over 40 years. To schedule your free consultation, call 630-932-9100.