# What does it mean to be scheduled for a “Removal Hearing” (deportation)?

- Link: https://www.lumlawgroup.com/types-of-crimes/
- Published: 2012-08-30T05:52:11-07:00
- Author: Albert J Lum

If you are out of status and deemed “removable”, you will be placed in “removal 
proceedings” and scheduled for a “Removal Hearing” with U.S. Immigration court.

You will receive a “Notice to Appear” (NTA) which informs you when and where your
hearing will take place.

The government will provide proof as to why you are “removable” (can be deported)
and present it to the Executive Office of Immigration Review (“EOIR”) Office of 
the Immigration Court. This is also where you can defend yourself by proving you
are not removable or request “relief” from removal.

The first hearing is a “Master hearing” where everyone will determine how to move
forward with your case.

Many aliens will give up at this point and request “Voluntary Departure”, which 
means you will leave the US of your own accord. Keep in mind that even if you leave
voluntarily, you will still be subject to penalties (such as a travel ban).

If you do not wish to leave voluntarily, you can go through the motions and prepare
for your next hearing (sometimes a “merits” hearing).

Each case is different and each alien has their own circumstances. If you aren’t
sure if you can handle court cases on your own, [contact Lum Law Group](https://lumlawgroup.com/Staging/contact-us/)
for legal assistance.