Navigating Immigration Court: What to Expect and How to Prepare

I still remember sitting in the back of an immigration courtroom years ago, supporting a friend through their case. The nerves, the confusion—it was a lot, even as an observer. If you’re heading into immigration court for the first time, it can feel overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to catch you completely off guard. With the right mindset and a bit of preparation, you’ll walk in with more confidence than fear. 

Whether you’re facing removal proceedings, applying for asylum, or dealing with a delayed green card, knowing what to expect in court matters. At Tourzani & Long, LLC, we work with folks from all walks of life dealing with these very issues. And if you’re in that boat right now, here’s a breakdown of what I’d want my own family to know before stepping into court. 

 

You’ll Probably Have More Than One Hearing

A lot of people assume they’re walking into a one-time court date—like in the movies. But immigration court often unfolds over multiple hearings. You might start with a Master Calendar Hearing (MCH). Think of this as a status check. It’s short, sometimes less than 10 minutes, and the judge will ask basic questions about your case. 

Later on, you may have an Individual Hearing, where evidence is reviewed and arguments are made. This one’s longer and can last hours. It’s where the meat of your case is heard. 

Tip: Show up early. Immigration courts are busy, and you don’t want to be rushed—or worse, marked as absent. Missing court can trigger a removal order automatically.
 

You’ll Be in Front of a Judge—But It’s Not Criminal Court

Unlike in TV courtroom dramas, immigration court doesn’t involve a jury. A single immigration judge makes the decision. The courtroom may be small and less formal than you expect, but that doesn’t mean it’s not serious. 

Sometimes, a government attorney will argue against your case. If you’re applying for relief—like asylum, cancellation of removal, or adjustment of status—you’ll need to present documents and answer questions about your background. 

 

Preparation Matters More Than You Think

If you’re representing yourself (which happens more than you’d think), the court still holds you to the same standard as someone with an attorney. This means you need to understand the legal basis of your claim, present supporting evidence, and meet filing deadlines. 

This is where a solid legal team helps, especially one that understands the nuances of your particular situation. At Tourzani & Long, LLC, we’ve worked with clients in complex cases—including those involving past convictions, pending appeals, or family-based petitions—and preparation was always key. 

A few practical tips: 

• Bring every document you’ve received from immigration (and copies). 

• Organize evidence like birth certificates, marriage records, police reports, or proof of residency. 

• Dress respectfully but comfortably—you may be sitting a while. 

 

Language Help Is Available (But Ask Early)

If English isn’t your first language, you can ask for an interpreter. The court usually provides one, but it’s crucial to request this ahead of time. Interpreters can be hit or miss, and if something doesn’t feel right, speak up. Miscommunication has caused more than one case to fall apart. 

I’ve seen people hesitate to ask questions because they didn’t fully understand what the judge or government lawyer said. Please—don’t do that. Speak up. Better to clarify than guess wrong. 

 

Nerves Are Normal—But You’re Not Alone

This might be the hardest part to talk about. Immigration court is intimidating. There’s often so much on the line—your home, your family, your future. But you’re not alone in this. Every week, thousands of people stand where you’re standing, and many make it through with good outcomes. 

Whether you’ve been in the U.S. for 20 years or arrived two months ago, your story matters. And having someone in your corner—someone who truly gets it—makes a difference. 

 

Call If You Need Help Preparing

If you’re feeling unsure or just want a second set of eyes on your paperwork, give Tourzani & Long, LLC a call. We help individuals and families across a wide range of immigration matters—from asylum applications to deportation defense. We welcome inquiries from all backgrounds and believe that no one should have to navigate this process alone. 

You can find more information at tourzanilaw.com. And if you’re already staring at a Notice to Appear and feeling overwhelmed, don’t wait. Sometimes just talking to someone who’s done this before is enough to make things feel manageable.