FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: What are the court's hours of operation?
A: The Immigration Court is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The filing hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.
Q: What if I don't have a lawyer with me?
A: YOU MUST COME TO YOUR HEARING ANYWAY. If this is your first master calendar hearing, and you do not have a lawyer, the Immigration Judge will allow you an opportunity to obtain a lawyer at your own expense. A List of Free Legal Services Providers is available at the Bloomington Immigration Court and on this home page. For those individuals who can not afford a lawyer, this list may assist you in obtaining legal representation.
Q: Do I have to have a lawyer?
A: No. You may elect to proceed without a lawyer if you choose to do so. However, the Department of Homeland Security will have a lawyer present to represent them.
Q: Will there be an interpreter present if I don't speak English?
A: At your first master calendar hearing, a Spanish speaking interpreter will be available to translate for you. If you need an interpreter for another language, the Immigration Judge may use a telephonic interpreter or may have to adjourn your case in order to obtain an interpreter. After your first hearing, the Court will ensure that a court interpreter in your native language is available.
Q: How do I notify the court if I change my address or move out of state?
A: You must notify the Court of any changes of address while under proceedings. Form EOIR-33, which is the form used to notify the court of change of address can be obtained from the clerk or the Immigration Judge. This form must be submitted within five days from the date of your move.
Q: How do I ask for a change of venue?
A: If you move out of state, you or your legal representative may request a "Change of Venue" from the Immigration Judge. However, until the Immigration Judge grants your request, you are required to appear at all scheduled hearings before the court. You or your legal representative should file a written motion for change of venue as early as possible in advance of the scheduled hearing. You or your legal representative may make inquiries to the court about whether or not the change of venue has been decided.
Q: What do I do if I don't remember the date and/or time of my hearing?
A: Please call 1-800-898-7180. This is an automated system that allows you to obtain information about your case.
Q: Will my application require a fee?
A: With the exception of asylum applications, most applications for relief require a fee. Please see the standard fee scheduled for details at 8 C.F.R. @ 103.7. The regulations provide that if you are unable to afford the fee for an application - cancellation of removal, for example - you can request a waiver from the Immigration Judge. The procedure for requesting a fee waiver are found at 8 C.F.R. @ 103.7(c).
Q: Where do I pay fees for applications?
A: The Immigration Court does not accept any filing fees associated with applications for relief. All application fees must be paid to the Department of Homeland Security. Once the application fee has been paid, the application, along with the fee receipt and/or fee stamp, must be filed with the Bloomington Immigration Court.
Q: Can I fax motions and applications to the court?
A: No, facsimile filings are not available. With the exception of asylum applications which must be filed during a court hearing, the Immigration Court will accept regular submissions by mail or in person filings through the window in advance of the scheduled hearing. Copies of all submissions to the court should also be provided to the Department of Homeland Security, Office of District Counsel. This may be accomplished by regular mail in advance of the scheduled hearing.
Filings with the court in advance of the scheduled hearing should have a CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE. Click here for the Certificate of Service Form.
Q: Is the court open during inclement weather?
A: In extreme inclement weather, you should call the court prior to your hearing. The telephone number is (612) 725-3765.