While normally noncitizens in removal proceedings with upcoming master calendar hearings will be able to see the name of the judge assigned to their case, sometimes the judge is listed as “IAD Judge.” “IAD” stands for Initial Appearance Docket. Some cases are placed on the IAD if the court is unable to accommodate the hearing date listed on a noncitizen’s Notice to Appear (“NTA”). A properly issued NTA must include a hearing date for the noncitizen to appear before a judge in immigration court and hear the charges of removability brought against them. However, sometimes the hearing date listed on the NTA by DHS is not verified with the immigration court beforehand, and the court is then unable to accommodate the hearing date listed on the NTA. As a result, the court may place the case on the IAD to give it time to assign the case to an available judge.
If your case is placed on the IAD, you still need to go to court on the hearing date, but the hearing will not go forward that day. Instead, it will be rescheduled for another hearing with an available judge. Alternatively, it may be possible to call the immigration court prior to the hearing date listed with an “IAD Judge” and ask the court for a new hearing date. Additionally, if you hire a lawyer and they enter their appearance by filing an E-28 with the immigration court prior to the hearing date with the “IAD Judge,” the court may automatically reschedule the hearing with an available judge.
Navigating immigration court can be complex, especially when your case is placed on the Initial Appearance Docket. If you have an upcoming hearing with an "IAD Judge," it's crucial to understand your options and next steps. An experienced immigration attorney can help ensure your rights are protected and guide you through the process. Contact us today to discuss your case and get the legal support you need.