Description
Adjudicate and administer justice in immigration courts, presiding over removal proceedings, custody redeterminations, and related matters. Apply the Immigration and Nationality Act, regulations, and precedent to decide cases, ensure due process, and maintain fair, orderly hearings. Issue oral and written decisions ordering removal, terminating proceedings, or granting relief.
- • Preside over master calendar and individual merits hearings in removal proceedings.
- • Advise respondents of rights, explain procedures, and ensure access to interpreters and counsel.
- • Review Notices to Appear, applications, motions, briefs, and exhibits.
- • Rule on admissibility of evidence, witness testimony, and methods of presenting proof.
- • Make credibility determinations and factual findings based on the record.
- • Apply the INA, implementing regulations, and controlling precedent to legal issues.
- • Adjudicate applications for asylum, withholding of removal, and protection under the Convention Against Torture.
- • Decide requests for cancellation of removal, adjustment of status, waivers, and voluntary departure.
- • Order removal, terminate proceedings, or grant relief with oral and written decisions.
- • Conduct bond and custody redetermination hearings where authorized and set appropriate conditions.
- • Manage dockets, set schedules and deadlines, and rule on continuances.
- • Resolve objections and disputes between DHS counsel and respondents or their representatives.
- • Rule on motions to suppress, reopen, reconsider, change venue, or terminate proceedings.
- • Take administrative notice of country conditions and evaluate expert and documentary evidence.
- • Issue protective orders, subpoenas, and other interim directives to ensure fair proceedings.
- • Ensure courtroom decorum and compliance with procedural rules and local standing orders.
- • Provide neutral procedural guidance to unrepresented respondents without giving legal advice.
- • Conduct hearings via video teleconferencing in accordance with due process requirements.
- • Coordinate with court staff, interpreters, and security and supervise courtroom personnel.
- • Prepare complete records of proceedings and ensure proper service of orders and decisions.
- • Research legal issues and draft opinions with findings of fact and conclusions of law.
- • Participate in specialized dockets, such as detained, family unit, or juvenile calendars.
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
