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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

 

Q. Do I need an attorney?
A. You may obtain an attorney at your own expense. A list of free legal service providers is available at the Court or click Legal Aid in the Main Menu. Whether to obtain an attorney or accredited representative or to speak/represent yourself is a personal decision which you must make.

Q. How do I notify the court of my change of address?
A. You MUST notify the court of any change of address within five days while proceedings are pending. Form EOIR-33 is the appropriate form you must file with the court to inform of any address change. The form is available from the clerk or the Immigration Judge. However, simply filing a form EOIR-33 will NOT automatically change the location of the hearing.

Q. Will there be an interpreter present if I do not speak English?
A. At your fist master calendar hearing it is likely that there will be an interpreter available to translate for you. However, depending on the language and/or dialect you speak, the Immigration Judge may adjourn your case in order to obtain an interpreter.

Q. Where can I obtain DHS forms?
A. DHS forms are available on the internet, at the local DHS office, and some forms may be available at the court.

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 schedule for details by clicking here. 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 procedures for requesting a fee waiver can found by clicking here.

Q. Where do I pay fees for applications?
A. The Immigration Court does not accept fees for applications. All application fees are paid to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) located at the Texas Service Center, P.O. Box 851488 – Dept A, Mesquite, TX 75185-1488. DHS Customer Service number is 1-800-375-5283.

Q. Where do I pay a bond?
A. All bonds are paid with the DHS Detention and Deportation at any DHS Detention Center or DHS District Office that accepts bond payments.

Q. When I file my documents with the court, can I leave DHS' copies with you?
A. No. Documents served on the court must also be served on the DHS trial attorneys. Their mailing address is PO Box 1711, Harlingen, Texas 78551.

Q. How can I speak to a Judge about my case?
A. The Immigration Judges do not speak to individual respondents about their case. The respondent should consult with his/her attorney or write a letter to the Judge.

Q. Is the court open during inclement weather?
A. In extremely inclement weather, you should call the court prior to your hearing. The telephone number is (956) 427-8580.

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