Removal Proceedings

Removal, or deportation, proceedings are initiated by Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE), and can be triggered in various ways.  The immigration courts, under the Executive Office for Immigration Review, oversee and make decisions in removal cases.  They are administrative proceedings used to determine one’s removability or deportation from the United States.  Removal proceedings are prosecuted by ICE through their staff attorneys.

The “Notice to Appear” (NTA) is a dated document issued to the immigrant by either ICE or Customs & Border Patrol (CBP) to one suspected of entering the US without inspection, remaining in the US beyond their authorized stay, committing certain crimes that can lead to removability (even if in lawful non-immigrant status or Lawful Permanent Resident status), or otherwise being present in the US unlawfully.  Reviewing the allegations in the Notice to Appear and ensuring appearances at all hearings, and maintaining a watchful eye for any and all deadlines, is paramount.

If you are in removal proceedings, an experienced attorney with knowledge of the immigration courts, the procedures and rules that govern appearances, filings, and deadlines is strongly advised.  Missing a court appearance can lead to an order of removal in absentia (“while not present”); missing a filing deadline can close all doors to relief.  The Law Office of Mary Khano Foteh, PC has experience in representing clients in removal proceedings, and success in re-opening or getting dismissed past removal orders.