Defending individuals facing deportation in New York immigration courts. Our attorneys in Albany and the Capital District provide aggressive advocacy at every stage of removal proceedings — from challenging the charges in your Notice to Appear through bond hearings, master calendar hearings, and individual merits hearings. We fight to protect your right to remain in the United States.
Removal proceedings begin when the Department of Homeland Security issues a Notice to Appear (NTA) — the charging document that places an individual before an immigration judge in the Executive Office for Immigration Review. The NTA sets forth specific factual allegations and charges of removability under the Immigration and Nationality Act. At Mandi Law Group in Albany, our immigration attorneys represent individuals throughout the Capital District and greater New York who are facing removal proceedings, providing vigorous defense at every stage of the process.
Once removal proceedings are initiated, the case proceeds through a series of hearings before an immigration judge. The first hearings are master calendar hearings — short procedural appearances where the respondent admits or denies the factual allegations, concedes or contests the charges of removability, designates a country of removal, and identifies the forms of relief from removal to be pursued. The case then proceeds to an individual merits hearing, where the immigration judge hears testimony, reviews evidence, and makes a determination on both removability and eligibility for relief.
There are numerous forms of relief available in removal proceedings that can prevent deportation and allow an individual to remain lawfully in the United States. These include asylum, withholding of removal, protection under the Convention Against Torture, cancellation of removal for certain permanent residents and non-permanent residents, adjustment of status, voluntary departure, and other discretionary forms of relief. The availability of each form of relief depends on the individual's specific immigration history, criminal record, length of residence, family ties, and the nature of the removability charges.
For individuals who are detained by ICE, obtaining release on bond is often the first priority. Bond hearings are held before an immigration judge, who determines whether the respondent poses a flight risk or a danger to the community. Our attorneys handle every aspect of removal defense — from bond hearings and master calendar appearances to individual merits hearings and appeals — for clients throughout the Albany and Capital District region. We understand the stakes involved and provide the aggressive, thorough representation that removal cases demand.
URGENT — If you have received a Notice to Appear or any document from immigration court, seek legal counsel immediately. Missing a court date can result in an in absentia removal order, which means you will be ordered deported without the opportunity to present your defense. Contact our office now to protect your rights.
(518) 698-0347Our removal defense practice covers every stage of immigration court proceedings — from the initial NTA analysis through bond hearings, master calendar hearings, and individual merits hearings. Each case is handled with the urgency and attention it demands.
When the Department of Homeland Security issues a Notice to Appear (NTA), it initiates removal proceedings by charging the respondent with specific grounds of removability. Our attorneys meticulously analyze each charge in the NTA, scrutinize the factual allegations for accuracy, and identify every available legal defense. We challenge defective NTAs, argue that the government has failed to meet its burden of proof on removability charges, raise jurisdictional defenses, and seek termination of proceedings where the evidence or legal basis is insufficient. Every case begins with a thorough review of the NTA to determine the strongest defense strategy.
When an individual is detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), obtaining release on bond is often the first critical step in mounting an effective defense. Immigration judges consider whether the respondent poses a flight risk or a danger to the community when setting bond. Our attorneys prepare compelling bond hearing presentations that demonstrate strong community ties, stable employment, family connections in the Capital District, lack of criminal history, and other factors that weigh in favor of release. We also handle cases involving mandatory detention and argue for bond redetermination when circumstances change.
Master calendar hearings are the initial procedural hearings in removal proceedings where critical decisions are made that shape the trajectory of the entire case. During these hearings, the respondent must admit or deny the factual allegations in the NTA, concede or contest the charges of removability, designate a country of removal, and identify the forms of relief from removal that will be pursued. Our attorneys attend every master calendar hearing fully prepared, ensuring that procedural rights are preserved, appropriate objections are raised, and the case is positioned for success at the individual merits hearing. We also handle requests for continuances when additional time is needed to prepare the defense.
The individual merits hearing is the trial-level proceeding where the immigration judge hears the full case and decides whether the respondent is removable and, if so, whether any form of relief from removal should be granted. Our attorneys prepare meticulously for these hearings — gathering documentary evidence, preparing witness testimony, developing legal arguments, and anticipating government cross-examination. We present compelling cases that include direct testimony from the respondent and supporting witnesses, expert testimony when appropriate, country condition evidence, and thorough legal briefing. Our goal at every merits hearing is to secure the strongest possible outcome for our clients.
Understanding the removal defense process helps you prepare effectively and make informed decisions. Here is how we approach every case from the initial analysis through resolution.
Your case begins with a comprehensive analysis of the Notice to Appear, your immigration history, criminal record if any, and all potential forms of relief. We identify every legal defense and relief option available under current immigration law, assess the strength of the government's case, and develop a strategic defense plan tailored to your specific circumstances.
We challenge the government's charges at every stage — contesting factual allegations in the NTA, raising legal defenses to removability, filing motions to terminate proceedings where appropriate, and arguing for bond if you are detained. Our defense strategy is built on thorough legal research and careful preparation of every argument.
At the individual merits hearing, we present your case with the full force of evidence, witness testimony, and legal argument. We prepare you for direct examination and cross-examination, present supporting witnesses, introduce documentary and country condition evidence, and deliver comprehensive legal arguments to the immigration judge.
We work toward the best possible resolution — whether that means termination of proceedings, a grant of relief such as asylum, cancellation of removal, or adjustment of status, voluntary departure on favorable terms, or, if necessary, a strong record for appeal. We pursue every avenue to protect your right to remain in the United States.
Defending Your Right to Remain
Aggressive removal defense for individuals and families in the Capital District
Removal proceedings carry the most serious consequences in immigration law — the potential loss of your right to remain in the United States. Understanding these critical considerations can make the difference between remaining with your family and being deported.
Missing an immigration court hearing can have devastating consequences. If you fail to appear, the immigration judge may order you removed in absentia — meaning you are ordered deported without any opportunity to present your defense or apply for relief. An in absentia removal order is extremely difficult to reopen and can result in bars to future immigration benefits. If you have received a Notice to Appear or a hearing notice, contact our office immediately to ensure you understand the date, time, and location of your hearing. If you cannot attend for a legitimate reason, your attorney may be able to request a continuance before the hearing date.
The Notice to Appear contains specific factual allegations and charges of removability that the government must prove to order your removal. Understanding these charges is essential because different charges carry different consequences and trigger different defenses and forms of relief. Some charges may be based on inadmissibility grounds under INA Section 212(a), while others are based on deportability grounds under INA Section 237(a). The distinction matters because the burden of proof, available waivers, and eligible relief differ depending on whether you are charged as inadmissible or deportable. Our attorneys explain every charge in plain language and develop a defense strategy tailored to the specific grounds alleged.
Even when the charges of removability are sustained, there are often multiple forms of relief available that can prevent deportation and allow you to remain lawfully in the United States. These may include asylum, withholding of removal, protection under the Convention Against Torture, cancellation of removal for certain permanent residents or non-permanent residents, adjustment of status, voluntary departure, registry, private bills, and other forms of discretionary relief. Our attorneys conduct a thorough assessment of every potential form of relief in your case and pursue all viable options to maximize your chances of remaining in the country.
If you are detained by ICE, you may be eligible for release on bond while your removal case proceeds. Immigration bond is not available in all cases — certain individuals are subject to mandatory detention based on their criminal history or other factors. However, many detained respondents are eligible for a bond hearing before an immigration judge. The judge will consider factors including your ties to the community, employment history, family in the United States, immigration history, and any criminal record. Securing bond allows you to be at home with your family, maintain employment, and more effectively assist in the preparation of your defense. Our attorneys advocate vigorously for bond in every eligible case.
Answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about removal defense and immigration court proceedings. Every situation is unique — consult with our attorneys for guidance specific to your case.
A Notice to Appear is the charging document that initiates removal proceedings in immigration court. It lists the factual allegations against you and the specific grounds of removability the government intends to prove. Receiving an NTA means the government is seeking to deport you from the United States. You should consult with an immigration attorney immediately upon receiving an NTA. Do not ignore it — failing to appear at your hearing can result in an in absentia removal order. An experienced attorney can analyze the charges, identify defenses, and determine what forms of relief from removal may be available in your case.
A master calendar hearing is a short procedural hearing — typically lasting only a few minutes — where the immigration judge addresses preliminary matters. You or your attorney will state whether you admit or deny the factual allegations in the NTA, whether you concede or contest the charges of removability, which country you designate for removal, and which forms of relief from removal you intend to pursue. The judge may also set deadlines for filing applications and schedule your individual merits hearing. It is critical to have an attorney represent you at master calendar hearings to ensure your procedural rights are protected and your case is properly positioned.
Many individuals in removal proceedings are eligible for release on bond. However, bond is not available in all cases. Individuals subject to mandatory detention — typically those with certain criminal convictions or who are arriving at a port of entry — may not be eligible for bond. For those who are eligible, an immigration judge will set a bond amount based on factors including community ties, employment history, family relationships, flight risk, and danger to the community. Bond amounts in immigration cases typically range from $1,500 to $25,000 or more. Our attorneys present compelling evidence at bond hearings to secure the lowest possible bond amount.
There are numerous forms of relief that may prevent deportation and allow you to remain in the United States. Common forms include asylum (for individuals with a well-founded fear of persecution), withholding of removal, protection under the Convention Against Torture, cancellation of removal (for both permanent residents and non-permanent residents who meet specific criteria), adjustment of status (if you are eligible for a green card), voluntary departure, and various waivers. The forms of relief available to you depend on your specific circumstances, including your immigration history, criminal history, length of residence, family ties, and the nature of the removability charges. Our attorneys evaluate every potential form of relief in your case.
Cancellation of removal is a form of relief available in immigration court that, if granted, cancels the removal order and allows the respondent to remain in the United States as a lawful permanent resident. There are two forms: cancellation for certain permanent residents (who must show at least five years of permanent residence and seven years of continuous residence after admission in any status, and that they have not been convicted of an aggravated felony) and cancellation for certain non-permanent residents (who must show ten years of continuous physical presence, good moral character, and that removal would result in exceptional and extremely unusual hardship to a qualifying U.S. citizen or permanent resident relative). The standards are demanding, and our attorneys prepare thorough applications supported by extensive evidence.
If you fail to appear at your immigration court hearing, the judge may order you removed in absentia. An in absentia order means you have been ordered deported without the opportunity to present your case. These orders can be reopened under limited circumstances — primarily if you can show that you did not receive proper notice of the hearing, or that exceptional circumstances prevented your appearance. The motion to reopen must generally be filed within 180 days of the order (or at any time if based on lack of notice). If you have received an in absentia removal order, contact our office immediately to discuss whether grounds exist to reopen your case.
Yes. If the immigration judge denies your case, you have the right to appeal to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA). The notice of appeal must be filed within 30 days of the judge's decision. The BIA reviews the immigration judge's findings of fact and conclusions of law and may affirm, reverse, or remand the decision. If the BIA affirms the removal order, you may seek further review by filing a petition for review with the appropriate federal circuit court of appeals within 30 days. Each level of appeal has strict deadlines and procedural requirements. Our attorneys handle appeals at both the BIA and federal court levels.
Removal proceedings in New York immigration courts can vary significantly in duration. Some cases are resolved in a matter of months, while others — particularly those involving asylum claims or complex legal issues — can take two to four years or longer from the initial master calendar hearing to a final decision. Court backlogs, the number of continuances granted, the complexity of the case, and the availability of hearing dates all affect the timeline. Throughout the duration of your case, it is critical to maintain valid contact information with the court, attend every hearing, and comply with all filing deadlines. Our attorneys keep clients informed of their case status and all upcoming deadlines throughout the process.
Our deportation defense practice covers the full spectrum of removal defense and immigration court representation.
Our attorneys provide comprehensive legal services across multiple practice areas.
Helping families stay together through marriage-based green cards, fiance visas, family reunification petitions, and relative sponsorship applications.
Strategic visa solutions for employers and professionals, including H-1B specialty workers, L-1 transfers, EB-5 investors, and PERM labor certification.
Guiding lawful permanent residents through the naturalization process, from application preparation and test readiness to interview coaching and document review.
Aggressive defense for individuals facing removal proceedings, including asylum claims, cancellation of removal, and appeals before immigration courts.
Compassionate representation for individuals seeking protection from persecution, including asylum applications, refugee processing, and CAT protection claims.
Comprehensive immigration compliance solutions for businesses, including I-9 audits, global mobility programs, and immigration policy development.
Experienced advocacy for individuals seeking waivers of inadmissibility, including I-601 hardship waivers, I-601A provisional waivers, and fraud waivers.
Dedicated legal support for crime victims seeking U-visa immigration relief, including certification assistance, application filing, and family derivative petitions.
Skilled appellate representation before the BIA and federal courts, including motions to reopen, motions to reconsider, and appeals of adverse immigration decisions.
Whether you have received a Notice to Appear, are detained by ICE, or need representation at any stage of removal proceedings, our experienced immigration attorneys are prepared to fight for your right to remain in the United States. Every consultation is confidential and without obligation.