Immigration Bond Hearings

For an immigrant, facing criminal charges is an extremely serious situation. In addition to facing the penalties associated with a criminal conviction, the immigrant may also be at risk of deportation and may have difficulty getting a judge to grant freedom from detention by way of a bond hearing. This is when involving an attorney is extremely important. A hearing for an immigration bond in Philadelphia may be legally complex and will directly impact your or a loved one's ability to be released from custody in the face of criminal charges.

The Hearing Process

The hearing allows an immigrant the chance to protect themselves, however, if they miss their hearing then they can forfeit the ability to receive a bond. Through a bond they can be released during their remainder of the case, but it does not guarantee them stay after their case is complete. You will need to first determine whether you are eligible to request a bond hearing. Generally, an immigrant may be allowed an immigration bond hearing if he or she is not classified as an aggravated felon or terrorist.

An immigration bond hearing lawyer can evaluate your particular situation to determine whether you may be eligible and can then work immediately to file a motion to request a hearing to seek an immigration bond at the earliest date possible. It is important to secure a hearing date in front of an immigration judge quickly. At your hearing, the judge will determine whether a bond amount should be set or will decide that the immigrant is ineligible for bond. The minimum amount for a bond of this kind may be $1,500, although it may range up to $20,000 or possibly higher. Having an attorney to represent your interests at this hearing is of the utmost importance, as this can help ensure your eligibility for bond and can help to keep this to a reasonable amount.