Question 1

01. My master calendar hearing is in a few days and I have no lawyer. Is it too late?

Accepted Answer

No, but call today. At a master calendar hearing, an attorney can enter an appearance and ask for a continuance to prepare, and judges routinely grant time when counsel has just come in. An individual (merits) hearing is different — that one is the trial itself and needs preparation well in advance. What you must not do is skip the hearing.

Question 2

02. I already have a deportation order. Is anything still possible?

Accepted Answer

Often yes. A motion to reopen can undo an order — including one entered when you were absent — if you were not properly notified, exceptional circumstances kept you away, or new evidence justifies another look. Some deadlines are very short, so make this call this week.

Question 3

03. Does it really matter how I entered the country?

Accepted Answer

Enormously, and it surprises almost everyone. If you were inspected and admitted or paroled, adjustment of status through a relative may be open to you even in proceedings. Someone who entered without inspection usually needs a different strategy. Same family, same years here, completely different case.

Question 4

04. Can I check my own hearing date?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and you should. Call EOIR's automated system at 1-800-898-7180 with your A-number, or look your case up on the EOIR portal. Courts reschedule and notices get lost. A few minutes every couple of weeks protects you from the worst outcome in this process.

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Removal Defense: What Happens in Immigration Court and How Cases Are Won

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