Your first hearing in immigration court is a key moment: it’s the first time you appear before a judge, and it sets the direction your case will take. Knowing what to expect, how to prepare, and having a good attorney can make all the difference.

What Is the First Hearing?

• It’s often called a Master Calendar Hearing or simply the “first hearing.”
• During this hearing, the immigration judge formally presents the charges filed against you, explains your rights, and asks whether you “contest” or “do not contest” the charges, or if you need more time to respond.
• The goal is not to decide your full case (that happens later) but to organize the process, set future dates, confirm whether you have an attorney, and identify what kind of relief or application you’ll be filing.

Why Is It So Important to Go with an Attorney?

• An attorney understands the legal process and can explain your role, what documents you need, and what options you may have.
• In many cases, having legal representation significantly improves your chances of success. (While statistics vary, studies show that asylum seekers with attorneys are far more likely to win their cases.)
• Your attorney will also make sure the hearing goes smoothly: ensuring you understand what’s happening, keeping track of deadlines, and helping you prepare for the next steps.

What Happens During the Hearing Step by Step

• Arrive early and check in with the court clerk or at the front desk.
• The judge will read the charges out loud (through an interpreter if needed) and ask whether you understand and whether you admit or deny them.
  • These charges are the reasons why the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) believes you are not legally allowed to remain in the United States.
  • For example, they may say you entered without a visa, overstayed your authorized period, or violated immigration law in another way.
• If you have an attorney, they’ll speak with you beforehand and may address the judge directly.
• The judge will usually set another hearing date (or several) and may ask for additional evidence, motions, or filings before the next step.
• This first hearing is usually brief (sometimes just a few minutes) but it’s extremely important because it officially begins your case in immigration court.

How to Dress and Behave in Court

• Dress formally or at least neatly (clean clothes, a shirt or blouse, no hats). Even though it’s not a criminal trial, you are appearing before a judge, and your presentation matters.
• Arrive early, ideally 30 minutes before your hearing.
• Silence your phone. Do not interrupt, speak out of turn, or use disrespectful language.
• Listen carefully to the judge and your attorney. Answer respectfully. If you don’t understand something, ask for clarification.
• Bring all your documents neatly organized, your A-Number, and any notices or letters from the court.
• If you have witnesses or an interpreter, make sure they are ready and present.

What Happens After the Hearing?

• Write down and keep track of any future dates set by the judge. Missing a deadline can have serious consequences.
• Talk to your attorney about what evidence, documents, or legal motions you need to prepare next.
• Get ready for your individual hearing (the trial portion of your case), which may involve presenting testimony, witnesses, or additional documents.
• Stay in close communication with your attorney and keep them updated if anything changes: your address, employment, family situation, or contact information.
• Never miss a hearing. If you fail to appear, the judge can issue an automatic deportation order in your absence.

Final Tips to Be Prepared

• Always double-check your hearing date, time, and location since changes can happen.
• Be organized: bring all your paperwork in a folder or envelope.
• Speak clearly and make sure you understand what your attorney and the judge say.
• Stay calm. It’s normal to feel nervous, but preparation helps.
• Most importantly: don’t go alone. Having an attorney gives you peace of mind, legal protection, and a much stronger case.

Your first hearing is not something to ignore or take lightly. It’s the beginning of your journey in immigration court. Being prepared, having legal support, and understanding what to expect before, during, and after can make a huge difference in your immigration case. If you don’t yet have an attorney, now is the time to find one who can stand by your side and fight for your future.

Need Representation at Your Immigration Court Hearing?

If you or a loved one has an upcoming court hearing and needs legal representation, our team at Eagan Immigration is here to help. We have years of experience guiding clients through immigration court with professionalism, compassion, and strong advocacy.
Call us today at 202-709-6439 to schedule a free evaluation and let us help you prepare your case and protect your future.

⚖️ This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.