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Immigration
Court Defense Services

Everyone deserves an opportunity to remain within the United States. We understand that receiving a Notice to Appear (NTA) can be scary, confusing, and difficult to process, but there is no need to panic. While an NTA places your case in immigration court, it does not represent a deportation order, and in many cases, there may be options to qualify for defense. At the Lisinski Law Firm, we work tirelessly to guide each client across every possible alternative for relief, such as asylum (Form I-589), cancellation of removal, or termination of removal.

If you have received a Notice to Appear, you should contact a trusted deportation defense attorney before the first court hearing.

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What Is an NTA (Notice to Appear)?

A Notice to Appear (NTA) is the first step in deportation proceedings. Issued by the Department of Homeland Security, the document informs its recipient that the government has opened a case to remove them from the United States. An NTA states:

  • Date, time, and location of the court hearing.
  • Charges against the individual.
  • Reasons for removal.

As removal defense attorneys, we don’t advise anyone to ignore their NTA or fail to appear in immigration court, as this would result in an immediate deportation order. Instead, the best course of action would be to contact a capable immigration attorney with experience in difficult cases.

The reasons for receiving an NTA include:

  • Illegal entry: entering the United States without inspection or proper documentation.
  • Overstaying a Visa: remaining within the country past the authorized date and violating conditions of a visa.
  • Denied immigration application: if denied asylum, a Green Card, or a visa, the government might issue an NTA.
  • Criminal offenses: committing certain crimes may lead to removal proceedings.
  • Immigration fraud: providing false information on immigration documentation.
  • DHS Error: it may be possible to receive an NTA by mistake or, if addressed correctly to you, it might contain inaccurate information. Contact your attorney immediately if you receive an NTA to verify its validity.
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What Happens at Your Immigration Court Hearings

If you received an NTA, don’t lose hope. At Lisinski Law Firm, we have a proven track record helping people prepare for court hearings, win hard cases, and remain in the United States. You don’t have to face immigration court hearings alone. Our priority is to keep you informed on every detail of court proceedings, the consequences of missing court, and the importance of legal representation. 

There are typically two main types of hearings in immigration court:

  • Master Calendar Hearing (Your First Court Date)

This is the first hearing where the judge confirms your identity, checks for a lawyer, and sets future dates. If you have an immigration court attorney already, they can respond to the government’s charges and start building their defense immediately.
At your MCH, the judge will:

  • Confirm your identity and legal representation.
  • Explain the charges against you.
  • Ask how you plead to the charges.
  • Schedule future hearings.

  • Individual Hearing (Your Main Case)

This is the main hearing where the judge decides if you can remain in the United States. Your deportation defense attorney will present the evidence, your testimony, and defenses such as asylum or cancellation of removal, and argue why you should be allowed to remain in the country. At the end, the judge may issue a decision, or schedule a later date for a ruling.

Since these hearings require careful preparation and strong supporting evidence, having the support of one of the best removal defense lawyers can significantly improve success rates. Experience in court has a massive impact on your case. You want an attorney who not only knows how to fight for you, but who also guides you with compassion and transparency at all times.

  • Missed Hearing Risks
  • Missing a court hearing after receiving an NTA results in an automatic deportation order in absentia.
  • You may be deported without the opportunity to present your case.
  • If an emergency prevents attendance, notify the court through your trusted deportation defense attorney immediately.
  • You’ll be at risk of deportation if you don’t receive important notices. Use Form EOIR-33 to update your address with the court and your attorney.

You don’t have to face these hearings alone!

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Legal Defenses You May Qualify For

  • Asylum (Form I-589) as a Defense

If you are afraid to return to your home country, you may be able to apply for asylum as a defense in immigration court. Asylum is a route of relief available for people who fear harm because of their race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.

Filing Form I-589 through the court, under the guidance of a trusted asylum defense lawyer, could potentially stop your deportation while your case is pending. If your application is accepted for processing, you may also become eligible for a work permit after your asylum application has been pending for at least 150 days.

  • Cancellation of Removal

People who have lived in the U.S. for a long time (typically 10 years or more) and have a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse, parent, or child may be eligible for Cancellation of Removal. To qualify, you must show that your deportation would cause “exceptional and extremely unusual hardship” to your qualifying family member. If granted, this relief can lead to lawful permanent resident status.

While this situation might be highly stressful, the support of a cancellation of removal attorney with experience in hard cases, such as Angel Lisinski, could provide you with peace of mind during the process. You can rest assured that we are prepared to fight for you and your family.

  • Termination or Continuance of Proceedings

In certain cases, a lawyer can ask the judge to pause (continue) or close (terminate) your case. This can happen when:

  • The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) made an error in your case
  • You have a pending petition with USCIS
  • Another agency is processing your immigration status.
    This type of request may give you more time or end your case if the court no longer needs to hear it.

  • Withholding of Removal / CAT Protection

If asylum isn’t available, there may be other forms of protection that could potentially prevent deportation to dangerous countries. A trusted defense deportation attorney could recommend that you seek:

  • Withholding of Removal: vital protection for people who face serious harm if returned to their country.
  • Protection under the Convention Against Torture (CAT): applies if someone is likely to face torture if deported.

These forms of relief don’t lead to permanent residency, but they can allow you to stay in the U.S. legally and avoid being returned to unsafe conditions.

Why Having a Lawyer Before Court Matters

When your future in the United States is at stake, securing the support and guidance of the best deportation defense attorney near you is not only critical, but also necessary to reduce risks during the first hearing and, consequently, improve your chances of remaining within the country.

The first hearing is the most important step in this process. The judge will ask how you plead to the DHS’s charges—and this is when everything you say could determine the course of your case. A skilled immigration court lawyer will prevent harmful admissions during the hearing and will coordinate filings across USCIS and EOIR to strengthen success rates.

At Lisinski Law Firm, we are dedicated to finding the best potential solutions for our clients, regardless of how challenging the case may be. We are ready to guide you across court proceedings with compassion, transparency, and empathy

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Documents to Bring to Your Lawyer or Hearing

Your defense deportation lawyer will send you a specific list of documents required for your case. These are general types of documents that are helpful in most immigration court cases. Start gathering what you can as soon as possible to make the process faster and your case stronger.

  • Identity & Immigration Records
  • Passport or national ID
  • Birth certificate
  • I-94, visa, work permit, Green Card, or NTA
  • Travel tickets or entry records
  • Copies of prior immigration filings or court papers

  • Proof of Residence in the U.S.
  • Lease agreements, rent receipts, mortgage statements
  • Utility bills, bank statements, pay stubs
  • School or medical records
  • Letters from employers, churches, or community members
  • Tax returns or W-2s

  • Family Relationships & Hardships
  • Birth certificates of children or other relatives
  • Marriage or divorce certificates
  • Proof of legal status for qualifying family (Green Card, passport, naturalization certificate)
  • Medical or school records showing hardship
  • Custody or child support documents

  • Fear-based Claims (Asylum / Withholding / CAT)
  • Police, medical, or court records from home country
  • Country reports or news articles
  • Letters or statements from witnesses or family
  • Proof of involvement in political, religious, or social groups

  • Good Moral Character & Community Ties

  • Employment letters or pay records
  • Volunteer or community service letters
  • Church or organization letters
  • Tax records or character reference letters

  • Other Helpful Documents
  • Psychological or medical evaluations (if relevant)
  • USCIS petitions or receipts
  • Prior court orders or attorney records

As experienced removal defense lawyers, we recommend bringing original documents and copies if possible. If you don’t have a document in particular, tell your lawyer—there may be another way to support your claims.

TPS Holders Losing Status and Facing Court

Unfortunately, many TPS holders are losing legal protection as programs come to an end due to court rulings and executive orders, causing them to receive NTAs and, above all, a burden of stress and fear that comes with removal proceedings. Our goal is to alleviate this burden and find every potential option to fight for you.

What Happens If You Ignore Your Court Notice

Failing to appear in court after receiving an NTA can have serious consequences. If you miss a scheduled hearing, you will automatically receive a deportation order in absentia, meaning that you could be deported without having a chance to present your case before an immigration judge.

If something prevents you from attending, such as illness or a family emergency, notify the court through your trusted deportation defense attorney immediately. Keeping your personal information up to date is crucial. You may update your address with the court through form EOIR-33.

Key Things to Know About Working With Our Firm

  • You have a passionate team supporting you: Our deportation defense attorneys, paralegals, and legal assistants are all here to move your case forward. You’ll always have someone on your side who knows your case and is ready to help.
  • We deliver our best work with honest, timely communication: our service stands out because we share information openly and respond quickly—this helps us protect and strengthen your case every step of the way.
  • Your documents build your case: The sooner you send us what we need, the faster we can prepare and present the strongest possible evidence for you.
  • We’ll guide you through the entire process: Immigration cases take time. We’ll keep track of every detail, deadline, and update so you can focus on your life, regardless of how long it takes.
  • We’re working toward the same goal: We want the best possible outcome for you — and together, with trust and teamwork, we’ll get there.

Protect your future in the U.S. and book an appointment today!

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Top 10 FAQs for People Who Received an NTA

An NTA (Notice to Appear) is a document that starts your case in immigration court. It lists the reasons the government believes you can be deported and tells you when and where to go to court. Receiving an NTA does not mean you will be deported right away — it means you have to appear before a judge and respond to the charges.

It depends. Some people get a court date within weeks, while others months later. Check your NTA carefully for the date. If it says “TBD” or has no date, you’ll get a separate notice in the mail. You can also check your hearing date online or by phone.

Usually, no. The first hearing (called a Master Calendar Hearing) is generally not when a judge makes a final decision. But if you don’t show up, the judge can order you deported in your absence. That’s why it’s very important to attend every hearing.

If your case was previously closed, reopening means the court will continue from where it left off. You’ll have to go back to court and either fight your case or take another legal step. Sometimes you may need to refile certain forms or update your information.

If you’re afraid to return to your home country, you may be eligible to apply for asylum, withholding of removal, or protection under the Convention Against Torture. Common forms include the Form I-589 (Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal). Talk to a lawyer right away, because there are strict deadlines for filing.

You may be able to apply for a work permit depending on your case type. For example, if you file for asylum and meet certain deadlines, you can apply for a work permit after your case has been pending for a set period of time. Other types of relief may also allow work authorization.

Missing a court hearing can lead to an in absentia removal order, which means the judge can order you deported without you being there. If you miss a hearing for a good reason, you may be able to ask the court to reopen your case — but that is not guaranteed. Always update your address with the court and your lawyer so you don’t miss important notices.

It varies widely. Some cases are resolved in months, but others can take years. The timeline depends on the type of case, the court’s schedule, and whether you are applying for any legal relief.

In rare situations, your lawyer can appear on your behalf at a Master Calendar Hearing — but not usually at a Final Hearing, where testimony is required. You will normally have to attend all hearings online (via Webex) or in person. If you can’t attend a hearing, tell your lawyer immediately. You may need to file a motion to continue or submit additional paperwork.

Having a prior case does not automatically mean you’ll lose. It depends on why your prior case was denied, whether your situation has changed, and whether you now qualify for a different type of relief. A lawyer can review your case and help you understand your options.

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Why choose us?

We value our clients more than anything and are committed to making sure you understand every step of the process. We are committed to replying to all your phone calls, emails, and text messages within 24 business hours. Our goal is to maintain clear and consistent communication during the entire process. With you at the heart of everything we do, we go above and beyond to ensure you feel supported, valued, and confident that your case is in the best hands.
You need an attorney who will work with you to find the best possible path towards legal status, even in the toughest of cases. Our dedication to consider every single avenue for relief has resulted not only in proven high-success rates for our clients, but also in dreams fulfilled and lives changed.
For immigration representation, we can serve anyone throughout the United States as a matter of Federal law. In fact, many of our clients are in other states, so we have plenty of experience working closely with clients from long distances. We are available day and night to meet with clients by phone or other virtual means, no matter where you may be located. We welcome all our clients to visit our offices across the United Sates, if they want to, but they will never have to do so in order to start an immigration case.
You won’t spend time being frustrated talking to automated recordings. Instead, you will have real support from our legal team, available during the following times:
  • Hours of In-Person Operation:Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Extended Support Hours: 24/7 legal team at your service.

Client-Centered

We value our clients more than anything and are committed to making sure you understand every step of the process. We are committed to replying to all your phone calls, emails, and text messages within 24 business hours. Our goal is to maintain clear and consistent communication during the entire process. With you at the heart of everything we do, we go above and beyond to ensure you feel supported, valued, and confident that your case is in the best hands.

High Success Rates

You need an attorney who will work with you to find the best possible path towards legal status, even in the toughest of cases. Our dedication to consider every single avenue for relief has resulted not only in proven high-success rates for our clients, but also in dreams fulfilled and lives changed.

Nationwide Clients

For immigration representation, we can serve anyone throughout the United States as a matter of Federal law. In fact, many of our clients are in other states, so we have plenty of experience working closely with clients from long distances. We are available day and night to meet with clients by phone or other virtual means, no matter where you may be located. We welcome all our clients to visit our offices across the United Sates, if they want to, but they will never have to do so in order to start an immigration case.

Available & Reliable

You won’t spend time being frustrated talking to automated recordings. Instead, you will have real support from our legal team, available during the following times:
  • Hours of In-Person Operation: Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Extended Support Hours: 24/7 legal team at your service.

Start a new chapter in your life.

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