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. 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.