Courtroom Etiquette
The Immigration Judges in Bloomington encourage all those appearing before them to familiarize themselves with the Immigration Court Practice Manual and to be prepared and ready to go forward with the case on the day of the hearing.
The Immigration Judges also promote the use of the written and oral pleadings formats outlined in the local rules. Upon written motion, the court may permit attorneys to appear telephonically. However, attorneys, particularly those out of state, are encouraged to use the written pleadings format.
The Immigration Judges fully recognize that the proceedings before them are an important undertaking for individuals and families. The Bloomington Court wishes to remind people that these hearings are formal court proceedings and should be treated seriously. Appropriate attire for court appearances should be worn; i.e., no shorts or tank tops. Children should always be supervised.
If you have a scheduled hearing:
- Please arrive early.
- Bring your Notice to Appear (NTA) or hearing notice if you have it.
- Business attire is expected of all representatives and attorneys.
- No cell phones, beepers, or recording devises are allowed in the courtrooms
- No food , drinks, or chewing gum are allowed in the courtroom.
- Whether or not you have an attorney, you must go to your hearing to avoid an order being entered against you in your absence, unless otherwise notified by the Immigration Judge.
- If you and other family members received Notices to Appear (NTA) for the same date, you must ALL attend the hearings.
- All documents and EOIR 33's (Change of Address form) must be filed at 7850 Metro Parkway, Suite 320, Bloomington, MN. 55425. Pleadings must contain original signatures.
- Parents with court hearings, whose children are not in proceedings, are asked, if possible, to have a responsible adult wait with the children outside the courtroom.