Fake News Flyers at Immigration Court
Flyers are being passed around immigration courts “Message to Illegal Aliens: A Warning to Self-Deport.” These flyers are dangerous and misleading. This blog highlights four false statements.
Being in Court Does Not Make Anyone ‘Illegal’
The flyer – posted in courtrooms and mailed to noncitizens together with hearing dates – was written by someone who has not read the immigration laws. The terms “illegal alien” and “self-deport” are not defined under the U.S. immigration laws. Some noncitizens in Court have a work permit, proving they are in the United States legally. Many can ONLY get a green card after the Immigration Judge listens to their evidence during a hearing (I’m talking about you, cancellation of removal and asylum applicants).
Leaving the United States WILL Result in a Deportation Order
The flyer lies by saying there is a “future opportunity for legal migration” for those who self-deport. Noncitizens who skip out on their scheduled court hearings (which is what happens when someone leaves the country) are BARRED from returning to the United States. This bar can last up to TWENTY YEARS.
People are NOT Going to Suffer “Immediate Deportation”
Noncitizens supposedly will be “apprehended by DHS with no opportunity to get your affairs in order.” The new president repeats this statement often, but a repeated lie is still a lie. Everyone is NOT subject to immediate deportation. The Supreme Court recently reminded this administration that noncitizens – even undocumented noncitizens – have the right to a hearing. This due process may take YEARS, especially considering that immigration judges have been fired. While waiting for these hearings, noncitizens have the right to remain in the United States.
Possible Imprisonment
The flyer intimidates by making false threats. Nowhere is this clearer than in the sentence “If you fail to self-deport, you may be subject to jail time.” It is unclear if this statement refers to the possibility of new criminal charges or to being detained by immigration authorities while they work to execute the order of removal. Also, those in removal proceedings who have already been released on bond generally cannot be re-detained absent changed circumstances. Either way, noncitizens in the United States are not “subject to jail time” without a hearing.
If you or someone you know needs to lawyer up to keep their family’s safe haven in the United States, call 954.385.0157 or Click “For Future Clients” to schedule a chat with our asylum immigration experts.
#ImmigrationMisinformation #CourtRights #ImmigrationTruth #BlandonLaw #FightTheFear #ImmigrationDefense #DeportationLies #LegalFactsMatter #RemovalDefense #ImmigrationJustice
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Disclaimer – These entries are based on real life events. Family member names, when used, are real. Client names are changed for privacy.
