In Removal Proceedings? Check Your Immigration Court Hearing Date Regularly

Why You Should Check Your Case Regularly

A hearing date is one of the most important pieces of information in an immigration court case. If you miss a scheduled hearing, the consequences can be serious, including the possibility of an order of removal being entered in your absence.

For that reason, people in removal proceedings should not rely exclusively on a paper notice received months earlier. I recommend checking the EOIR Automated Case Information System regularly, including at least once a week when possible.

Hearing Dates Can Change

Immigration court schedules can change. Hearings may be moved to a different date, and there can be a significant amount of time between the original hearing date and the new date.

This is a reminder that simply waiting for a mailed notice or assuming that your attorney has received an update may not be enough.

This does not mean that every hearing will be changed or that notice will never be provided. It means that checking the official case information is a simple additional step that can help identify a change as soon as it appears in the system.

How to Check Your Immigration Court Case

The Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) provides an online Automated Case Information System where individuals can check information about their immigration court cases.

You can access the system here:

EOIR Automated Case Information System

Make checking your case part of your regular routine. In addition to checking online, keep copies of your immigration court notices and make sure your attorney has your current contact information.

• Check regularly: At least once a week is a reasonable precaution.
• Confirm your hearing: Do not rely on an old hearing notice if the online case information shows something different.
• Keep information current: Make sure your attorney can reach you about important developments.
• Act quickly: Contact your attorney if you discover a change in your hearing information.

What to Do If Your Hearing Date Changes

If you do not have an attorney, consider speaking with an immigration attorney as soon as possible, particularly if the new hearing date is approaching. You may need to prepare documents, evidence, witnesses, or legal arguments before appearing in court.

If the information you see online appears inconsistent with a notice you previously received, it is important to address the discrepancy rather than simply assuming that one source can be disregarded.

Protect Your Case From a Missed Hearing

Immigration court proceedings can have life-changing consequences. A missed hearing is not something to treat casually, particularly when the court may proceed without the person being present.

Checking your case regularly takes only a few minutes and can provide an important additional safeguard. If you are in removal proceedings, make it a habit to verify your hearing information and stay in communication with your attorney.

Do not wait until the day before your hearing to find out whether the date has changed.