If you are taken into immigration custody, having accurate personal and immigration information available can be helpful. This may include your full legal name, date of birth, and Alien Registration Number (A-Number), if one has been assigned to you. You may also want to gather or request copies of prior immigration decisions, past removal orders, and any immigration-related documents you have received.
Information showing your ties to the community may also be relevant during custody reviews. This can include proof of family relationships, employment history, length of residence in the U.S., or other connections to your local community. Contact information for your country’s consulate may also be useful while in custody.
Requesting Release From Immigration Detention
Individuals held in immigration detention may be eligible for release under certain conditions, depending on their circumstances. One possible option is release on bond, which involves paying an amount set by ICE or an immigration judge. Another option may be release on recognizance, which does not require a bond payment and is generally based on factors such as humanitarian considerations or minimal flight risk.
Eligibility for release depends on multiple factors, including immigration history and prior legal records. Not everyone qualifies for every type of release, and decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.
Bond Hearings and Supporting Information
Some individuals may have the opportunity to appear before an immigration judge for a bond hearing. During this process, information may be presented to show stability, community ties, and the ability to comply with future immigration proceedings.
This information can include letters or statements from family members, employers, or community organizations, as well as documentation showing where you would live and how you would support yourself if released. If you have past criminal or immigration issues, written explanations or records related to those matters may also be reviewed.
Documents showing lawful status of immediate family members—such as U.S. birth certificates, naturalization certificates, or permanent resident cards—may be relevant if available.
Getting Help and Information
Immigration laws and procedures can be complex and vary based on individual circumstances. If you or a loved one is detained, speaking with a qualified immigration professional or Legal Pro can help you better understand the process and available options. Community organizations and consulates may also provide informational resources or referrals.
Learning how immigration detention and release processes work can help you make informed decisions.
Please note: This page offers general legal information, not but not legal advice tailored for your specific legal situation. Rocket Lawyer Incorporated isn't a law firm or a substitute for one. For further information on this topic, you can Ask a Legal Pro.
