Immigration attorneys report some courts hold over 100 case hearings daily
The Surge in Deportation Hearings
Immigration attorneys say some courts are holding – Recent reports from immigration legal professionals indicate that certain courts are now conducting more than 100 deportation hearings each day. Joseph M. Perez, an attorney with extensive experience in immigration law, described a typical master calendar session in Annandale, Virginia, as a drastic departure from the past. “These sessions used to accommodate around 10 individuals, occasionally up to 15,” he said, recounting a recent hearing. “But today, the judge announced 100 cases were scheduled for this session alone.” Master calendar hearings serve as the first step in removal proceedings, where immigrants are informed of their charges and legal rights. However, the current system has accelerated this process, resulting in large-scale reviews that some legal experts argue may compromise due process.
“Normally, these master calendars will have 10 people, maybe sometimes 15, but usually in that range. The judge opened the hearing and said, ‘we have 100 cases on today’s docket.’”
This shift, known as “mega masters” by legal professionals, has become a standard practice in several jurisdictions. Attorney Briana Carlson noted that some clients’ hearings were rescheduled without prior notice. “My client’s original date was July, but it was moved to today without any communication,” she explained. The clerk of the Sterling, Virginia, court confirmed that a directive was issued to prioritize hearings scheduled for July or later, increasing the volume of cases processed daily.
Efficiency vs. Fairness in the Court System
The Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), under the Department of Justice, has spearheaded this push for expedited hearings. A spokesperson for the agency stated that the goal is to resolve cases swiftly. “Delays can leave individuals with strong claims in limbo while those without clear defenses stay longer than they should,” the spokesperson added. With the addition of new judges, EOIR claims it is managing the increased workload. However, immigration attorneys say some courts are now prioritizing speed over thorough legal scrutiny, raising concerns about the quality of representation for detainees.
Vanessa Dojaquez-Torres, a policy expert at the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), emphasized the risks of this approach. “By consolidating cases, the system may be forcing individuals to miss hearings, leading to automatic removal orders without proper preparation,” she warned. This strategy disproportionately affects those without legal counsel, as they are less likely to receive timely updates. The AILA has since urged attorneys to monitor their online calendars meticulously. “The pressure is on to ensure no case falls through the cracks,” Dojaquez-Torres stated, highlighting the challenges of keeping pace with the rapid schedule.
Impact on Immigration Legal Practices
Immigration attorneys say some courts are now holding massive hearings, which has transformed the legal landscape. The master calendar process, once a slower, more personalized stage, has become a high-pressure environment. Perez noted that the focus is shifting from individualized hearings to volume-driven efficiency. “It’s a short-term fix that may have long-term consequences for legal fairness,” he argued. With over 100 cases processed daily in some locations, the system is operating at an unprecedented rate. This has forced legal professionals to adapt their strategies, often working in shifts to manage the increased caseload.
Legal analysts have criticized the approach, stating it reflects a broader policy shift under the Trump administration. “The trend is part of a larger effort to streamline deportations,” one expert said. “It’s not just about speed—it’s about reducing the number of people who can challenge their removal.” Immigration attorneys say some courts are also using procedural tactics to increase the number of cases resolved quickly. For example, cancellations and rescheduling have become common, with clients sometimes notified only at the last minute. This has created a sense of urgency that some argue may lead to errors in the legal process.
Reactions from the Legal Community
Immigration attorneys say some courts are holding over 100 case hearings daily, prompting widespread concern among legal professionals. “The system is moving at a breakneck pace, but it’s not always fair,” said Dojaquez-Torres. “Vulnerable populations, like those without lawyers, are being pushed to the front of the line.” The American Immigration Lawyers Association has issued guidance to help attorneys navigate this new environment. “Clients need to be aware of the changes and prepare accordingly,” she advised. This includes attending hearings promptly and ensuring that all legal arguments are fully presented within the compressed timeframe.
As the number of cases continues to rise, the legal community is divided on the effectiveness of the strategy. While supporters argue that it improves efficiency and reduces backlogs, critics warn of potential consequences. “We’re seeing a pattern where people are being removed without a full understanding of their options,” said one attorney. The debate over the system’s fairness has intensified, with immigration attorneys say some courts are now balancing the need for rapid processing against the rights of individuals. As the situation evolves, the legal community remains vigilant, advocating for reforms that ensure due process is not sacrificed for speed.
