Confusion Surrounds Last-Minute Immigration Hearing Changes

In October 2025, immigrants lined up for hearings at the New York Federal Plaza Immigration Court. However, many are being notified last minute of in-person hearings at new, undisclosed locations. Five immigration attorneys revealed this information, highlighting it as part of a broader strategy by the Trump administration.

Unannounced Changes

Recently, hearings from Hyattsville and Baltimore, Maryland, and Sterling, Virginia, have been moved to Washington, D.C., and Falls Church, Virginia. These locations don’t have established immigration courts for in-person hearings. The D.C. building is associated with the Federal Emergency Management Agency and lacks Justice Department affiliation.

Complications for Immigrants

Immigrants received notifications about the changes just days before the new hearings, and some did not receive any notice. Attorney Kel White noted that regulations require ten days’ notice for hearings. The confusion particularly impacts immigrants without legal representation, who risk an “in-absentia order of removal” if they miss a hearing.

System Adjustments

The Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) runs numerous immigration courts. It stated adjustments are necessary due to the addition of judges and opening of new hearing locations. However, it didn’t clarify reasons for these specific venue changes. The administration aims to address a backlog of around 3.5 million immigration court cases, viewing existing courts as barriers to fast deportation.

Complex Legal Environment

Attorneys expressed concerns about transparency and the fairness of these actions. Kel White attended a hearing at Falls Church, finding it used for remote adjudications rather than regular court proceedings. The remote presence of judges and prosecutors contrasts with immigrants required to be in person.

Impact on Immigrants

A person told NPR they relied on the app MigraConnect for updates due to a lack of mailed notice. Cross-state relocations have occurred without prior announcement, further adding to the stress and uncertainty faced by immigrants.

Legal Challenges

Attorney Lucelia Justiniano had similar experiences with clients missing mail notifications, leading to unexpected scheduling changes. A client’s case was moved from Maryland to Virginia, with her hearing date advanced by a month.

Increasing Removal Orders

The administration is expediting final removal orders. “Mega master calendar” hearings are conducted nationwide, involving large numbers of immigrants, often without lawyers. These situations contribute to rising in-absentia deportations and declining asylum approvals.

Attorneys criticize the approach, with removal rates for unrepresented immigrants in Baltimore increasing significantly. Luis Justiniano highlights the challenges posed against immigrants due to these last-minute changes.