National Immigration Project

Immigration courts have been scheduling what are being called “mega master” hearings — sometimes over 100 people in the same hearing slot at once. Many of those dates have been scheduled or moved up with little or no advance notice, and people who miss roll call are receiving deportation orders on the spot.

Missing a hearing — even by a few minutes, even if you never knew the date changed — can mean a deportation order that takes effect immediately and comes with a fine of $5,130 or more.

If you have a case in immigration court, or know someone who does, check your hearing date every day. You can do that using your A-number on the EOIR website or by calling 1-800-898-7180. If the date changed, contact your attorney right away.

We put together a full explainer, available in English & Spanish, on what these hearings are, what options exist if you’ve already received a removal order, and what to do next. https://nipnlg.org/work/resources/mega-master-hearings-fast-cases-and-bad-outcomes

Immigration courts are being used to generate deportation orders in bulk—100 or more people in a single hearing, most without lawyers, many without real notice of a new hearing or that their date had changed.

We put out a statement today condemning these so-called "mega master" hearings. Read it here: https://nipnlg.org/news/press-releases/national-immigration-project-condemns-mega-master-hearings-mass-deportation

Membership renewal and first-time enrollment for the 2026–2027 year are now open!

The National Immigration Project is a community of attorneys, advocates, and organizers who share resources, build skills, and show up for immigrant rights together. Members span all 50 states — and whether you’re renewing or joining for the first time, we’d love to have you.

Learn more and sign up at https://nipnlg.org/membership.