A Notice to Appear is the document that starts a case in immigration court. If one arrived in your mail or was handed to you, it’s normal to feel scared. You still have rights, and there are steps you can take today.
Read the whole notice carefully
The notice lists the reasons the government says you can be removed from the United States. It may also give the date, time and place of your first hearing. Some notices don’t list a date. If yours doesn’t, you can check for a hearing date through the immigration court’s online case information system using your A-number, the alien registration number printed on the notice.
Don’t miss your hearing
This is the most important step. If you miss a hearing in immigration court, the judge can order you removed without hearing your side. If you can’t attend for a serious reason, talk to a lawyer right away about your options. Don’t just stay home.
Keep your address up to date with the court
The court sends notices by mail. If you move, you must tell the immigration court your new address, usually within five days. If the court can’t reach you, you could miss a hearing without ever knowing it was scheduled.
Start gathering your documents
Pull together anything that shows who you are and your history in the U.S.: passports, identity documents, immigration papers, tax records, proof of family relationships and any past court or police records. Your lawyer will help you work out which ones matter for your case.
Talk to a lawyer before your first hearing
Depending on your situation, you may be eligible for relief such as asylum, cancellation of removal or adjustment of status. A lawyer can review your history, explain your options and prepare your case. Please don’t sign papers you don’t understand, and avoid travel outside the U.S. until you have advice.
Our team handles removal defense, including detained cases. If you or a family member received a Notice to Appear, call us at 703-649-4848.
