A Master Hearing is a preliminary hearing. It is often described as an introductory hearing or a first meeting with the judge.
Length: usually no more than 15 minutes.
Process: the charges listed in Form I-862 Notice to Appear are read aloud. You confirm your information, state that you are seeking asylum, and sign the required documents. The judge will not ask questions about the substance of your case.
The hearing may take place in person at the courthouse, where 10-50 people may be present at the same time. If you have an attorney, the hearing may also be conducted online.
An attorney may file a motion to waive the Master Hearing and ask the judge to schedule the final hearing directly, known as the Individual Hearing.
Ideally, by the time of the Master Hearing, your Form I-589 and case materials should be prepared. You may file them with the court in advance or bring them with you. The case may be supplemented later, but if Form I-589 is not ready, the hearing will be postponed and another Master Hearing will be scheduled.
Judges often insist that respondents have an attorney. If you do not have one, the judge may schedule additional Master Hearings at their discretion.
You may request a continuance for a valid reason.
If your first hearing is scheduled in the state where you were detained and you have since moved to another state, you must not only notify the court of your new address but also file a motion to change venue.
It is extremely important to attend your first hearing. If you fail to appear, the immigration judge will likely issue a removal order.
On the day of your first hearing, the courtroom may be crowded. Judges typically schedule multiple cases at the same time, and you may have to wait several hours before your case is called.
If you do not have an attorney, you may ask the judge for additional time to find one. The judge may ask what efforts you have made, so it is helpful to prepare a written list of attorneys or organizations you contacted.
If you have already filed Form I-589 and request more time, this may stop your asylum clock and delay your eligibility to apply for a work permit. You are not required to hire an attorney, but the judge may insist multiple times and continue the hearings, or view this as a delay tactic.
If your children are included in your case, you must bring them to the first hearing. During the hearing, ask the judge whether your children must attend future hearings, and continue bringing them until the judge states otherwise.
Depending on your situation, you may have one or several Master Hearings. Once all requirements are met, the court usually schedules the final hearing, known as the Individual Hearing.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration rules may change. For guidance on your specific situation, always consult official sources or a qualified immigration attorney.
