There is a drastic shift in immigration enforcement policy: Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents are now arresting people at or near immigration court.
Immigration judges, upon ICE's requests, have been dismissing cases to remove judicial protections and fast-track individuals into expedited removal,a process that bypasses the right to a full hearing.
In some cases, families received what appeared to be favorable decisions, such as dismissal of their removal cases, only to be detained moments later outside the courtroom.
These court arrests target those who have no criminal records, migrants with no legal representation, and people who are seeking asylum.
What's Behind This Enforcement Shift?
A recently leaked ICE directive confirms that the agency is now aggressively targeting immigrants previously released on parole, “Notice to Report,” or similar programs if they have not affirmatively filed for asylum.
Those who appear for court or ICE check-ins may be processed for expedited removal or re-detention, even if they were previously released due to low enforcement priority or lack of removal options.
Recent Arrest at the Denver Immigration Court
This troubling trend is taking place in different immigration courts around the country, including Denver.
For example, on May 29, 2025, a family comprising a mother, father, and their young child was detained by ICE agents at the Denver Immigration Court after attending a scheduled check-in.
Despite receiving a dismissal of their removal order, which would have allowed them to remain in the U.S. pending further proceedings, the family was apprehended by ICE officers.
What This Means
The government's actions of arresting people who appear for their court hearings or USCIS interviews signals that there is no longer a guarantee that a location is considered “safe” from ICE enforcement.
This enforcement escalation clearly undermines trust in the legal system and will likely deter many individuals from attending court hearings, fearing detention.
But not showing up for a hearing could be worse.
If you miss your court hearing, the immigration judge will likely issue a removal order in your absence, a final order of deportation.
This makes ICE's job much easier. They don't need to argue your case or prove anything to the court.
They simply have to execute the order by detaining and removing you from the country.
What to Do?
If you are in removal proceedings, you need legal representation, now more than ever.
A skilled immigration attorney can:
- Help you prepare and file applications for relief from removal, including asylum, cancellation of removal, etc.,
- Monitor your case for dismissal tactics,
- Advise you of enforcement risks,
- Help assert your rights if ICE tries to detain you, and
- Take emergency legal action if you or a loved one are taken into custody.
At Lear Immigration Law, PC, we are here to help you navigate this dangerous and rapidly changing landscape.
Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For legal advice specific to your situation, please consult a qualified immigration attorney.
