How do you find out what the bond amount is?

[corazoncita]

Not that it matters, since I'm broke-- but in case I win the lottery, how do you find out the amount of bond that DHS sets? Is that payable at any time, or would it have to be paid right away? Also, if you request a bond hearing, can only an attorney negotiate with a judge?

[mandee3911]

immigration orginally denied bond for my husband, i think they tell them if they get a bond. Usually its higher than if you go before a judge, and you don't need a lawyer, but you need to find out how to file for the bond motion and everything like that. I don't know all the dynamics of that since I did have a lawyer

[Daniel Green]

Not that it matters, since I'm broke-- but in case I win the lottery, how do you find out the amount of bond that DHS sets?

Who is detained?

Is that payable at any time

Yes, unless there is a 'change in circumstances' in the detainee's case. If the detainee does something like beat up someone or commit some kind of misconduct at the detention center,

Also, if you request a bond hearing, can only an attorney negotiate with a judge?

If you are pro se, i.e. unrepresented, the detainee can negotiate with the judge. If you are represented, you can nonetheless speak to the judge as well, although if you are at odd with your lawyer the judge may tell you to stop talking on the one hand, or fire your lawyer on the other.

The big picture here is that ICE sets the bond amount, and if you don't like it you ask for a bond hearing in front of an IJ.

One big tip for bond hearings is preparation. Although the bond hearing itself is an informal conversation with the I.C.E. attorney and the judge, you should get all proof together that is needed for a bond hearing and step into the court room prepared, and with prepared witnesses, if possible.

As you know, the stakes are high, as it is someone's freedom that is in the balance.

-Dan

-Dan

[corazoncita]

Thank guys... There is a lot of good info there!


It is my husband that is detained. I need to know how to file a motion for a bond hearing. Anyone know how??

I have positive letters regarding his character from family, friends, police, clergy, and his case manager from the prison. I also have filed the I-130. I am going to overnight all of this to the judge's attention, since my hubby will most likely have a teleconference with the bond judge.