Immigration lawyers say U.S. courts are consolidating dozens of deportation hearings into “mega master” sessions to speed up removals.
U.S. immigration attorneys say some courts are now holding more than 100 deportation case hearings daily in what lawyers describe as “mega master” proceedings aimed at accelerating removals.
Attorney Joseph M. Perez told ABC News that a Virginia immigration judge recently handled 100 cases in one session, far above the usual 10 to 15. “The judge opened the hearing and said well, we have 100 cases on today’s docket,” Perez said.
Lawyers alleged that several hearings scheduled for later months were abruptly moved forward without notice. Attorney Briana Carlson said her client’s July hearing was rescheduled without prior communication.
The Executive Office for Immigration Review said it “prioritizes the timely completion of all cases.” However, critics warned that migrants without legal representation could miss hearings and receive automatic deportation orders.
“The goal is for people that are not showing up, they’re going to get an in absentia removal order,” Vanessa Dojaquez-Torres said.
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