As of 2025, removal proceedings still follow federal immigration law and court procedures set by the Executive Office for Immigration Review. These cases move through a specific process, and understanding that process can reduce uncertainty. If you have questions about removal proceedings and how they relate to your circumstances, our Naperville, IL immigration lawyer can help.
What Are Removal Proceedings?
Removal proceedings are formal court cases held in immigration court. They are used to decide whether a non-citizen may stay in the United States or must be removed. These cases are governed by federal law under 8 U.S.C. § 1229a. Immigration court is civil, not criminal. This means the focus is on immigration status, not any type of criminal guilt. An attorney from the Department of Homeland Security represents the government. The individual appears before an immigration judge.