Removal Defense and Immigration Court: Your Questions Answered

Short answers on receiving a Notice to Appear, applying for a green card in removal proceedings, missing a hearing, reopening a case and asking the court to close it.

This page covers the most common questions from people whose case is, or may be, in immigration court: the Notice to Appear, applying for relief while in proceedings, missed hearings, reopening a case and asking the court to close it. It is written for people in removal proceedings and their families. The answers are general, and deadlines in immigration court are strict.

What should I do if I get a Notice to Appear (NTA)?

This is urgent; act right away. An NTA means removal proceedings have been initiated. Timely legal response is critical.

Can I apply for a green card while in removal proceedings?

Yes, in some cases. You may be eligible through cancellation of removal, asylum, or adjustment based on marriage to a U.S. citizen.

What happens if I miss my immigration court hearing?

Missing your hearing can lead to a deportation order in your absence. If this happens, you may still have options, but act quickly.

Can I reopen my case if I already have a deportation order?

Possibly. If there is new evidence or legal error, a motion to reopen may be filed. Deadlines are strict, so act promptly.

Can I ask the court to close my case?

Yes, through prosecutorial discretion or administrative closure. Eligibility depends on your background and immigration history.

How Claudette helps with this

Claudette reads your Notice to Appear with you page by page, checks your real hearing date in the court’s system, and sets reminders before every hearing so a date is never missed. In the Court Room she builds your hearing prep, explains each allegation and charge, tracks deadlines, and prepares motions (including a motion to reopen) and the applications for relief you may qualify for, using your own facts and documents. You review and approve each step, and attorney review is available as an optional add-on.