News outlets have been flooded with reports of immigrants being arrested outside U.S. immigration courthouses, just after their cases were terminated at the government’s request.
This stems from the Trump administration’s expansion of expedited removal, which was previously limited to undocumented immigrants detained within 100 miles of an international border who had been in the country for less than two weeks. The process involves ICE prosecutors requesting immigration judges to close certain immigrants’ court cases so that ICE agents can arrest them and expedite deportation.
Immigrants most vulnerable to this newly broadened tactic include those lacking proper documentation and unable to prove their presence in the U.S. for over two years, as well as undocumented immigrants who entered through authorized legal ports. For the latter, no two-year limitation applies—placing nearly a million immigrants who entered via the CBP One app at risk.
According to NPR, the mass deportations promised will depend on the cooperation of law enforcement, only some of which have offered to assist. These deportations also rely on the cooperation of school staff – according to the Associated Press, educators in some cities and states with hardline immigration policies are working with civil rights groups to preserve the accessibility of public education for students regardless of their status. Thomas Homan, the administration’s so-called “border czar,” has lamented the success of initiatives like Chicago’s “Know Your Rights” campaign in hindering ICE efforts.
This situation highlights the importance of having an immigration attorney in Miami, especially now that, according to Reuters, the Trump administration is considering suspending habeas corpus—the right to challenge detention—to further speed up deportations.
In such uncertain times, an immigration attorney in Miami can make the difference between a quick deportation and the chance at a fair defense.
Be very careful!
Beware of notaries, immigration consultants or anyone who is not qualified and prepared in these matters. Always seek the advice and services of an immigration attorney for your immigration processes and procedures.