Key Takeaways:
- If you are detained by immigration or put in removal proceedings, you still have legal rights.
- Do not sign anything or agree to leave the U.S. without speaking to a lawyer.
- You may qualify for bond, asylum, cancellation of removal, or other defenses.
- Fast legal help is essential—what you do in the first 48 hours can change everything.
What Happens When Immigration Detains You?
If you are picked up by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or transferred from local jail to ICE custody, you will likely be:
- Moved to a detention center
- Interviewed about your immigration status
- Given a Notice to Appear (NTA) in immigration court
You may have a right to ask for bond and fight your case in front of a judge—but only if you don’t sign your rights away.
Will I Be Deported Right Away?
Not necessarily. Deportation is a process, not something that happens overnight.
You have the right to:
- A hearing in front of an immigration judge (in most cases)
- Have an attorney (at your own expense)
- Request bond
- Present defenses, such as asylum or cancellation of removal
Immediate deportation can happen only if:
- You’ve already been ordered removed before
- You waive your rights and accept voluntary departure
- You fall under expedited removal and do not ask for asylum
That’s why it’s critical not to make decisions without legal advice.
Should I Sign Voluntary Departure Papers?
No—not without speaking to a lawyer.
ICE officers may pressure you to sign forms that say you’re agreeing to be deported. This is called voluntary departure or stipulated removal.
It may seem easier in the moment—but once you sign, it’s extremely hard to undo. You may be barred from returning for 10 years or more.
Always say: “I want to speak to my lawyer.”
Can I Ask for a Bond or Get Out of Detention?
Yes—in many cases, you can request a bond hearing to ask for release while your immigration case is pending.
You may qualify for bond if:
- You have no serious criminal history
- You’re not a flight risk or danger to the community
- You have strong family or community ties in the U.S.
Judges often consider:
- Employment
- Family in the U.S.
- Time in the country
- Prior deportation history
At Hines Law, we help prepare strong bond packages to give you the best chance at release.
What Are My Options in Deportation Court?
In immigration court, you may be able to apply for:
- Asylum (if you fear returning to your country)
- Cancellation of Removal (if you’ve lived here long enough and have U.S. citizen relatives)
- Adjustment of Status (if you qualify for a green card through family)
- Waivers (to forgive past immigration or criminal issues)
Each option has strict requirements. The judge won’t tell you what to apply for—you need a lawyer to guide you.
What Should My Family Do If I’m Detained?
If a loved one is detained:
- Write down their A-number (alien registration number)
- Use ICE’s detainee locator online
- Call Hines Law immediately—we may be able to:
- Request a bond hearing
- Prepare a deportation defense
- Visit the detention center
- Coordinate with immigration attorneys or criminal defense if needed
We represent detained clients in Georgia and work with families to keep communication open.
Get Help from Hines Law Immediately
Being detained by ICE is terrifying—but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Hines Law, we protect your rights, your family, and your future. We’re experienced in:
- Immigration bond hearings
- Removal defense
- Criminal charges that affect immigration status
- Supporting families while loved ones are detained
Call us 24/7 at 678-904-8420 or contact us online for a confidential consultation.
Your freedom matters. Your family matters. Let us fight for both.