What to Do If You Receive a Deportation Notice in NYC

Receiving a Notice to Appear (NTA) — the formal document that begins immigration court proceedings — is one of the most frightening experiences an immigrant and their family can face.

It is not the end. But what you do in the next hours and days matters enormously.

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What Is a Notice to Appear?

A Notice to Appear (NTA) is a legal document issued by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). It charges you with being removable from the United States and orders you to appear before an immigration judge.

The NTA includes your name, the legal grounds for removal, and the date, time, and location of your immigration court hearing.

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Step 1: Do Not Ignore It

Do not ignore the NTA. Failing to appear at your immigration court hearing will almost certainly result in an automatic order of removal in absentia — meaning the judge can order your deportation without you in the courtroom.

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Step 2: Contact an Immigration Attorney Immediately

Call an immigration attorney the moment you receive an NTA. An experienced immigration lawyer will review the NTA for errors, file a proper response, request a continuance to prepare your case, and identify possible defenses and relief options.

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Step 3: Know Your Rights

Even in immigration court, you have important rights:

• The right to an attorney (at your own expense)
• The right to a hearing before an immigration judge
• The right to present evidence and witnesses in your defense
• The right to appeal an unfavorable decision to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA)
• The right to an interpreter

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What Defenses Are Available?

Asylum — If you fear persecution in your home country based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.

Cancellation of Removal — For long-term residents (10+ years) who can show exceptional hardship to a qualifying U.S. citizen or LPR family member.

Adjustment of Status — If you are eligible for a green card through a family member or employer.

Withholding of Removal / Convention Against Torture — If returning you to your home country would subject you to torture or persecution.

Voluntary Departure — In some cases, agreeing to leave voluntarily avoids a formal removal order and preserves future immigration options.

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What If I Am Already Detained?

If you have been taken into immigration detention (ICE custody), you have the right to a bond hearing. An attorney can argue for a lower bond or even release on supervision. Detention does not mean deportation is inevitable.

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Contact Us

If you or someone you love has received a Notice to Appear in New York City, contact the Law Office of Reyadh Nagi PLLC today:

• (718) 513-1375
• 742 Morris Park Ave, 2nd Floor, Bronx, NY 10462
• nagilaws.com/Contact

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