Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is requesting judges terminate immigration court cases to streamline the removal process. The government can remove migrants detained within one hundred miles of the border without trial,  but this new operation goes far beyond these parameters. The operation is heightening documented migrant’s anxieties regarding appearing for immigration cases.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) explained the operation targets documented migrants that were initially released with notices to appear in court when they should’ve been removed in the first place. The operation involves ICE requesting immigration judges cancel the court cases of these specific migrants. Once their case is dropped, ICE detains the migrant and places them on a streamlined removal process known as expedited removal.

In addition to documented migrants with pending immigration cases, documented migrants that can’t prove they’ve been in the U.S. for than two years can be removed without trial, too. It’s estimated the operation targets nearly one million migrants that entered the country during the last few years. Undocumented migrants that arrive in the U.S. via legal entry points can also be placed under expedited removal.

The detainment of migrants at immigration court is making many hesitant to show up to their hearings at immigration court. Legal experts are warning migrants against skipping their hearings, because being absent is grounds for a removal order. To minimize the chances of detention or removal, it’s important to take proactive measures and seek professional legal guidance.

As always, ImmigrantionUSA actively monitors ongoing U.S. immigration news. If you have questions about any U.S. immigration related issue, contact us. Working with an experienced attorney ensures you get the right advice based on the most recent laws. In an ever-evolving immigration policy landscape, we’re with you every step of the way.