About
The Immigration Court Helpdesk is a court-based legal education program for people in immigration proceedings who are not in detention. The program provides information about court practices and procedures, available legal options, and other relevant topics. ICH acts as a safeguard for immigrants in removal proceedings, ensuring a modicum of due process in a high-stakes and complex legal system. In addition, the program is a crucial gateway for connecting people with pro bono attorneys, to the limited extent available.
In Our Network
ICH operates in 23 immigration courts across 18 cities
Services
- Group information sessions are in-person presentations at the immigration court and provider offices that offer a broad overview of the immigration legal process and basic information on defenses against removal.
- Individual information sessions are one-on-one meetings, where participants can ask providers detailed questions about immigration law and what to expect as they pursue their cases before the court.
- Pro se workshops allow immigrants who will be representing themselves in court or before USCIS to ask legal questions, prepare applications and practice with others who will be pursuing similar applications or relief.
- Recognizing that legal representation is the most appropriate resource for anyone in removal proceedings, referrals to pro bono attorneys are made where possible.
People Served
Adults, children, and families who are not detained by ICE, but who are in removal proceedings or administrative proceedings under the Asylum Processing Rule.
Our Partners Say
“One of our staff members was approached by a woman from Guatemala who – because she was illiterate – confused her biometric processing date with her master calendar hearing. She unfortunately missed her hearing thinking that she attended court when she went for her biometrics hearing. We then helped her submit a Motion to Reopen, which was granted. The client was able to then continue with her immigration proceedings rather than being removed (deported) in absentia.”
Legal Service Provider, Miami