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ICE Ambush in Court: The Hidden Risk of Immigration Hearings

Immigrants with scheduled court hearings are walking into courtrooms hoping for justice, and instead face ICE courtroom detentions.

They arrive prepared to fight their cases. Then they find out ICE attorneys are dismissing their removal proceedings. Under new Trump-era guidance, judges are agreeing. Immediately after the dismissal, ICE detains the immigrants and initiates expedited removal proceedings on the spot.

There is no chance to prepare, no time to appeal. Just handcuffs.

Immigration Courtroom Detentoions and Arrests: A Dangerous Trend

This cruel new pattern is spreading across the country. Many immigrants have families, jobs, and strong legal cases. They show up in good faith for their court hearings, and afterward, authorities arrest them in the hallway after court.

These immigration court arrests are often pre-planned. ICE officers reportedly wait just outside the courtroom to detain immigrants after proceeding dismissals. They arrive without warning, and without giving them a chance to re-file or request relief.

Due Process Under Attack

This is more than a policy change — it’s a serious threat to due process in immigration court. Former immigration judges have spoken out, revealing that the Department of Justice instructed judges to loosen dismissal standards in removal cases.

And with ICE agents stationed nearby, dismissal now means immediate detention, fast-track deportation, and the denial of a fair hearing.

Class Action Lawsuit Challenges ICE and DOJ Tactics

Hope may be on the horizon. A newly filed class action lawsuit alleges that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Department of Justice (DOJ) engage in an unlawful plan to target immigrants for arrest in court. It alleges that this violates basic constitutional protections.

A coalition of immigrant rights groups filed the lawsuit, representing a dozen individuals whom authorities detained after they appeared in immigration court. Many of these individuals split from their families without warning, despite following the legal process to remain in the U.S.

This legal battle could be a major step in ending the practice of immigration court ICE operations designed to trap and deport noncitizens with little recourse.

What This Means for Immigrants Now

If successful, this case could:

  • End ICE detentions at court appearances
  • Reinforce the right to a fair hearing
  • Restore legal protections in removal proceedings

You should be able to go to court without fearing or experiencing arrest. You should have the opportunity to present evidence and defend your case — not be subject to surprise ICE apprehension in court.

Know Your Rights — And Take Action

If you or someone you know has a court date coming up, do not go unprepared. These practices show that immigration enforcement is becoming more aggressive, and you need legal protection more than ever.

At Shepelsky Law Group, we’re closely tracking this issue and supporting clients who may be vulnerable to these detentions.

Whether you are seeking asylum, applying for cancellation of removal, or need help stopping deportation, we are ready to defend your rights — and keep you out of ICE custody.

Book a Consultation Now

Don’t wait until it’s too late. A qualified attorney can help you:

  • Understand your risks
  • Prepare for court safely
  • File for emergency relief if needed

👉 Call Shepelsky Law Group at (718) 769-6352 or
👉 Book your consultation online: https://shepelskylaw.cliogrow.com/book

We fight for immigrants. Always.