Between ICE raids and the recalendaring of immigration cases, immigrants may be facing unprecedented challenges concerning their safety and their stay in the United States. Understanding the current environment and respective rights can help immigrants proactively protect themselves.
However, it is always advisable to seek professional guidance from an immigration attorney who can provide actionable advice at all stages of your immigration journey, from deportation defense to applications for alternative legal statuses.
What To Know
The Trump administration has conducted a wave of ICE raids, which do not seem to be slowing down. At the same time, the administration indicated its dedication to the reinforcement of immigration rules – most notably through a recent batch of motions to calendar, the first step in putting cases that were previously “administratively closed” back on an immigration judge’s active docket.
Los Angeles, in particular, has seen an increase in these motions, many of which are decades old and are even for individuals who have since passed away or already been granted permanent resident status (green card).
Tricia McLaughlin, spokesperson for Homeland Security, has stated that “…President Trump and Secretary Noem are following the law and resuming these illegal aliens’ removal proceedings and ensuring their cases are heard by a judge.”
This is highly concerning for many, as they had previously been granted legal protections which are now being unexpectedly challenged by the new Administration. Due to the uncertainty of this movement, we encourage immigrants of all statuses to contact a trusted immigration attorney.
How to Prepare
Here are some legal tips that immigrant families should keep in mind, not only as the raids continue, but also as closed immigration cases are being recalendared.
Know Your Family’s Immigration History
Everyone in the household should understand the immigration history of each family member. This includes:
- How and when they entered the country
- Whether anyone has ever been detained at the border
- If there are any ongoing or past immigration cases
Gathering and organizing documentation for all immigration matters, including court dates, legal filings, and notices, helps prevent confusion and supports a strong legal defense if needed.
Watch Out for Immigration Scams
Scammers often target immigrant communities, especially those unfamiliar with the legal system. Be especially cautious about:
- Social media users (such as on TikTok) advertising paid legal services that promise protection from deportation without valid legal credentials.
- Attorneys charging high fees just to be “on call,” without providing real legal support.
Before paying for any legal help, always verify credentials and be wary of anyone promising quick fixes or guaranteed results. More information about common scams can be found here.
How to Check the Status of Your Case
Having an immigration case “administratively closed” does not mean the case is over. It simply means the case is paused. No action is taken unless one of the parties involved moves to reactivate it.
Cases can be recalendared even after many years, so it’s important to stay informed and check the status regularly.
To check the status of a case, visit the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) website. There, you can enter your Alien Registration Number (A-number) to see updates on your case.
Contact A Deportation Attorney Today
Although facing the possibility of deportation is scary, we highly advise immigrants to remain cooperative with local law officers and to proactively contact deportation defense attorneys.
Reeves Immigration Law Group has served immigrants and their loved ones for 40 years, obtaining success even in the most complex cases. Whether you are concerned about your and your family’s legal rights, or facing possible detainment or deportation, our team of immigration lawyers can provide expert advice on how to move forward.
Contact us today to connect with the best deportation lawyers. We promise to be by your side through it all because we believe in making a difference in the lives of others and our community.
