Atlanta Immigration Court: Process, Hearings, and What to Expect
Dealing with the Atlanta Immigration Court can feel overwhelming, but with Quijano Law by your side, you don’t have to face it alone. Our legal team tailors strategies to each client’s unique situation, ensuring strong representation and clear guidance throughout the process.
How Does the Atlanta Immigration Court Process Work?
The Atlanta Immigration Court process begins when an individual receives a Notice to Appear (NTA), also known as Form I-862. This document outlines:
- The charges and reasons for removal
- The date and location of the first hearing
- The issuing authority (Immigration and Customs Enforcement – ICE)
After receiving the NTA, individuals must go through a series of hearings, which determine whether they can remain in the U.S.
What Are the Different Types of Immigration Hearings?
There are three primary hearings in the Atlanta Immigration Court process:
Master Calendar Hearing (MCH)
Purpose: A preliminary hearing where procedural matters are addressed.
What happens:
- The judge confirms identity and ensures the individual understands the charges.
- Attorneys identify potential forms of relief (asylum, cancellation of removal, etc.).
- The hearing is brief, often lasting only a few minutes.
- Some MCH hearings occur via video conference or phone.
Individual Hearing (Merits Hearing)
Purpose: This is the main hearing where the case is argued in full.
What happens:
- The individual (or their attorney) presents evidence and testimony.
- Witnesses, including the respondent, may testify.
- The government attorney (representing ICE) challenges the claims.
- The judge may ask questions to assess credibility.
Outcome: The judge issues a final decision based on the evidence..
Bond Hearing (For Detained Individuals)
Purpose: To determine whether a detained individual can be released on bond while their immigration case proceeds.
What happens:
- The individual must prove they are not a flight risk or a danger to the community.
- Attorneys present evidence of family ties, employment, and community involvement.
- The judge sets a bond amount (if granted).
Where Is the Atlanta Immigration Court Located?
Main Immigration Court Location:
180 Ted Turner Drive SW, Suite 241
Atlanta, GA 30303
Phone: 404-331-0907
Annex Location (To handle case backlogs)
Peachtree Summit Federal Building
401 West Peachtree St. NW (Floor 26)
Atlanta, GA 30308
Phone: 404-554-9400
Tips for Dealing with the Atlanta Immigration Court
If you are scheduled for a hearing at the Atlanta Immigration Court, keep the following in mind:
- Hire an Experienced Immigration Attorney – The court does not provide free attorneys, so securing legal representation is crucial.
- Attend All Hearings – Missing a hearing may result in a deportation order in absentia, which has serious consequences, including barring re-entry to the United States for several years.
- Be Prepared for Delays – Court dockets are overloaded, and hearings may be rescheduled multiple times.
- Understand the Burden of Proof – The individual must prove eligibility for relief, requiring strong evidence and credible testimony.
- Respect Court Procedures – Adhering to formal court rules and etiquette can impact the judge’s impression.
- Seek Help for Detention Cases – If detained, act quickly to secure representation and request a bond hearing.
- Know Your Appeal Rights – If the judge denies your case, you may appeal to the BIA or a federal court.
- Beware of Expedited Removal – Some individuals apprehended at the border may not get a court hearing and can be deported quickly.
What Happens If My Case Is Denied? The Appeals Process
If the judge issues an unfavorable decision, you have the right to appeal. Here’s what you need to know:
- Appeal to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) – You have 30 days to file Form EOIR-26.
- No New Evidence – The BIA only reviews the existing case record and prior arguments.
- Federal Court Review – If the BIA upholds the decision, you may appeal to the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.
- Motions to Reopen or Reconsider – In some cases, new evidence or legal errors may allow you to request reconsideration.
How Quijano Law Helps Clients in the Atlanta Immigration Court
At Quijano Law, we provide comprehensive, experienced representation for clients navigating the Atlanta Immigration Court process.
- Personalized Legal Strategies – Every case is unique, and we tailor our approach to each client’s situation.
- Thorough Preparation – We help clients gather evidence, prepare testimony, and meet court deadlines.
- Skilled Courtroom Representation – Our attorneys advocate aggressively in master calendar, individual, and bond hearings.
- Clear Communication – We ensure clients fully understand the process and their legal options.
- Experience With Atlanta Immigration Judges – Our team has over a decade of experience handling asylum removal defense, U-Visas and VAWA cases.
- Appeals & Post-Order Relief – We ensure clients fully understand the process and their legal options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the Atlanta Immigration Court
How long does the Atlanta Immigration Court process take?
Timelines vary depending on case complexity and court backlog, but cases can take months or years to resolve.
Can I get a free attorney for my immigration court case?
No, the court does not provide attorneys. You must hire private counsel or seek pro bono services.
What happens if I miss my court hearing?
Missing a hearing can result in a deportation order in absentia, which may bar re-entry into the U.S.
Can I apply for asylum in immigration court?
Yes. You must file Form I-589 within one year of your last U.S. entry to apply for asylum.
Don’t Face the Atlanta Immigration Court Process Alone – Contact Quijano Law Today
At Quijano Law, we provide dedicated, results-driven representation for individuals facing the Atlanta Immigration Court process. Our team members possess deep knowledge and experience in all aspects of U.S. immigration law and have successfully handled a wide range of cases. Allow us to help you navigate this legal journey with confidence.
