FAQs About Immigration Bonds

When people are arrested for a crime in the United States, they can often post bond, commonly known as bail, and be released from custody until their trial or other court appearances. The same is sometimes true when immigrants are arrested and placed in custody. These individuals may also be eligible for bond, but this can be more complex and people often have many questions. Below, our Atlanta deportation defense lawyer explains more about immigration bonds.

What are Immigration Bonds? 

Immigration bonds are payments made to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to ensure that you will return to court or check-ins with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) if you are released from custody. Not all immigrants in custody are eligible for bond and even those who are have no guarantee so it is always advised that you speak with an Atlanta deportation defense lawyer who can advise on your case.

How Much are Immigration Bonds?

Under federal law, the minimum possible bond is $1,500. In Georgia, the average immigration bond is $8,000 although bond amounts can be much higher or significantly lower.

How Can You Request Bond? 

If ICE sets a bond, you can pay it and they will release you from custody. If a bond is not set by ICE or the amount is too high, you can request a hearing before an immigration judge. You will have to prove why the bond is reasonable and present evidence to show that you will appear at all future hearings. An immigration judge can also lower a bond set by ICE, increase it, or keep you detained without bond.

How are Bond Decisions Made?

Immigration judges will consider a number of factors when determining whether to grant you bond. They include:

• You meet the eligibility requirements: You are not eligible for bond if you have been deported in the past, you were detained while entering the country, or you have certain criminal convictions.
• You do not pose danger to the public: The judge will review your criminal history to determine if you are a danger to the public.
• You are not a flight risk: The judge will consider if you have appeared at previous court hearings, if you have connections in your community, and if you are eligible for relief to determine if you are a flight risk.

What if an Immigration Bond is Too High?

You do not have to pay the immigration bond immediately but you will not be released until it is paid in full. Someone else with lawful status in the U.S. can also pay the bond on your behalf. If you appear at all court hearings and follow all immigration orders, including leaving the country, the bond is returned to the person who paid it.

Why Work With a Deportation Defense Lawyer in Atlanta? 

You are not required to work with an Atlanta deportation defense lawyer when arguing your case, but it can drastically improve your chances of a favorable outcome. Our experienced attorney can collect the necessary evidence to prove your case for bond and during other immigration hearings. For a consultation to discuss your case and needs, please call Shirazi Immigration Law, Inc. now at 404-523-3611.

Serving clients in Atlanta, Moultrie, and Dalton, GA and Chattanooga, TN.

Source:

ice.gov/detain/detention-management/bonds