Receiving a Notice to Appear has completely shaken me, especially with the hearing date coming up tomorrow. The fear of ICE being present in court is overwhelming, and I am considering not showing up at all. I am from Belarus, and I do not fully understand what happens if I miss this date. What are the real consequences of skipping the hearing, and what should I do right now?

Question

Lalita Chakraborty · Accepted Answer

Not attending your hearing can result in an automatic removal order issued in your absence. This makes future immigration options far more difficult.

Nkosinathi Ndlovu · Answer

ICE presence does not remove your obligation to appear in court.

Mahboubeh Mahboubeh · Answer

Immigration court is separate from enforcement actions, and judges expect attendance. If you are afraid, contact an attorney or legal aid immediately to discuss last-minute guidance.

Mikalai Sargsyan

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