Last updated May 26, 2026
Chicago’s immigration court is one of the busiest in the country, with more than 200,000 pending cases as of March 2026.
It’s an uphill battle for noncitizens who must go before an immigration judge to prove why they should be allowed to stay in the United States. The process often takes years. It can be especially difficult for those who don’t speak English and for anyone who cannot afford an attorney.
We spoke with legal experts to understand how to navigate the complex immigration court system. Given the Trump administration’s crackdown on immigration, it’s possible the laws governing immigration court could change. Currently, here’s what to know.
Disclaimer: We are not attorneys and this is not intended as legal advice. Consult an attorney with legal questions.
What and where is Chicago’s immigration court?
Chicago’s main immigration court, located on the 15th floor at 55 E. Monroe St., conducts immigration proceedings for people in Illinois, Wisconsin and Indiana charged with violating immigration law. Immigration court judges decide whether someone can stay or should be removed from the country.
If you have an immigration court case, you may have received a “Notice to Appear” from the Department of Homeland Security. It should include a description of the charges, as well as the date, time and place for your initial court hearing.
If you’re unsure whether you have an immigration court case or the date of your next hearing, check online using your alien registration number (“A-number”) or by calling the Immigration Court Hotline at 800-898-7180. Your A-number was assigned when you were initially processed. It is either an 8 or 9 digit number and can be found on your immigration paperwork.
Once inside immigration court, printed sheets with information on individual cases are posted outside each courtroom and in the lobby to find out where your courtroom is.
What happens if I miss a court hearing?
Missing a hearing can result in the judge closing your case and issuing an order of removal from the country. If your case is closed and a judge orders your removal, you can appeal by filing a motion to reopen your case. You must have a good reason to appeal. You can find instructions on how to reopen your case online and in-person.
You should let the court know your new address within 5 business days of any move by filing an EOIR-33 form. These forms are available at court and online. If you do not file a change of address with the court, notices about upcoming court dates could go to your old address. If you miss a court date, the judge could issue an order of removal.
How do I request an interpreter?
Under current law, court interpreters are provided at no cost. During your initial hearing, the judge will likely ask if you require an interpreter. You have a right to proceed in the language you are most comfortable speaking. The court must arrange for an interpreter if needed, though Spanish interpreters are usually present. Request an interpreter at your initial hearing through the judge, or by filing a written request with the court.
Complaints about an interpreter can be made by email at complaints.interpreter@usdoj.gov.
Am I entitled to an attorney?
Unlike criminal proceedings, you will not be provided an attorney if you can’t afford one. Immigration attorneys can be expensive, but some legal aid organizations may be able to assist at little to no cost.
The National Immigrant Justice Center operates a help desk for people without an attorney inside Chicago’s immigration court Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Pro Bono Room located on the 15th floor next to the elevators. Attorneys at the help desk can provide information about the hearing process, forms of relief, legal referrals, and how to change a home address or to locate a court hearing. NIJC also provides phone consultations via their hotline at 312-660-1328.
Legal Aid Chicago also provides legal assistance for immigrants who are victims of crime, domestic violence, or human trafficking. For more information visit legalaidchicago.org.
Someone offered to help me with my paperwork. Can I trust them?
Ask questions and conduct research.
Be wary of people offering assistance for exorbitant fees or making promises about the outcome of your case. Only licensed attorneys and accredited representatives recognized by the Department of Justice can represent you in court. If you’re not sure whether someone is an attorney, you can look up their registration in the state where they are admitted to practice.. Also be wary of anyone who claims to be an attorney in another country, but is not licensed in the U.S.
Be wary of anyone who claims a special relationship with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services or the immigration courts. As a precaution, demand a written contract before paying for legal services. Avoid paying cash and never provide original documents, such as a birth certificate or passport, to anyone helping with immigration matters. Do not sign any forms or documents containing false or inaccurate information.
For those who believe they’ve been a victim of fraud, complaints can be filed with the DOJ’s Fraud and Abuse Prevention Program by emailing EOIR.Fraud.Program@usdoj.gov. Victims can also file an Immigration Practitioner Complaint Form with EOIR.
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