What Happens at Your First Immigration Court Hearing (Master Calendar)

If you or a loved one just received a Notice to Appear (NTA), you're probably nervous about what happens next. Your first court date is called a "master calendar hearing," and understanding what to expect can make a stressful situation more manageable.

This guide explains the master calendar hearing process in plain English—what happens, what to bring, and how to prepare.

What Is a Master Calendar Hearing?

A master calendar hearing is your first appearance before an immigration judge. Think of it as a preliminary hearing—it's not where your case is decided, but where the court:

• Confirms who you are and your address
• Explains your rights
• Reads the charges against you
• Asks how you respond to those charges (called "pleadings")
• Schedules your next hearing

Master calendar hearings are usually short—often just 10 to 30 minutes. Many cases are scheduled at the same time, so you may wait while other cases are called.

Master Calendar vs. Individual (Merits) Hearing

These are two different types of hearings:

You may have more than one master calendar hearing before your individual hearing is scheduled. This is normal.

What Happens Before Your Hearing

Check Your Notice to Appear

Your NTA contains the date, time, and location of your hearing. If this information is missing, the court will mail you a separate hearing notice.

Arrive Early

Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time. You'll need to:

• Pass through security screening (like at an airport)
• Find your courtroom
• Check in with court staff
• Sign in if there's a sign-in sheet

Courthouses can be confusing and security lines long. Don't be late.

What to Bring

• Your Notice to Appear
• Any hearing notices you've received
• Photo ID (if you have one)
• Your A-number (alien registration number)
• Proof of your current address
• A pen
• Any documents your attorney has asked you to bring

If you have an attorney, they should meet you at the courthouse or inside the courtroom.

What Happens During the Hearing

The Judge Opens Your Case

The judge will turn on recording equipment (all hearings are recorded), then state:

• Your name and A-number
• The type of proceeding
• The date and location
• Who is present

The judge will verify your name, address, and phone number. If anything has changed, tell the judge.

You'll Get an Interpreter If Needed

If English isn't your first language, the court provides an interpreter at no cost. Don't try to proceed without one if you're not fully comfortable in English—too much is at stake.

The Judge Explains Your Rights

If you don't have an attorney, the judge will explain:

• You have the right to an attorney (but the government won't pay for one)
• You can get a list of free legal service providers in your area
• You have the right to present evidence
• You have the right to question government witnesses
• You can appeal the judge's decision

Pleadings: Responding to the Charges

This is the main purpose of your first master calendar hearing. The judge will ask you (or your attorney) to respond to the Notice to Appear:

1. Do you admit you received the NTA? (Usually yes)
2. Do you want the NTA read aloud? (Your attorney typically waives this)
3. Do you admit or deny each factual allegation? (For example: "You are a citizen of Mexico" or "You entered the U.S. on January 15, 2024")
4. Do you admit or deny the charges? (That you are removable under a specific section of immigration law)
5. What country should you be sent to if ordered removed? (Usually your home country)
6. Will you apply for any form of relief? (Asylum, cancellation of removal, etc.)

Scheduling the Next Hearing

Before you leave, the judge will either:

• Schedule another master calendar hearing (if you need time to find an attorney or prepare)
• Set a deadline for filing applications for relief (like asylum)
• Schedule your individual (merits) hearing

Get the date in writing before you leave. Write it down even if you think you'll remember.

Special Situations

If You're Detained

If you're in ICE custody, you'll appear in court at the detention facility or via video. The process is the same, but:

• Your hearings may be scheduled faster
• You may be able to request a bond hearing at your master calendar
• Getting an attorney is harder but even more important

If You Don't Have an Attorney Yet

Tell the judge you need more time to find a lawyer. Judges typically grant at least one continuance for this purpose. Ask for the list of free legal service providers.

However, don't keep asking for more time without actually trying to find representation. After multiple requests, the judge may require you to proceed without an attorney.

If You Miss Your Hearing

Missing a hearing can be devastating. The judge may order you removed "in absentia"—meaning you're ordered deported without being present. If this happens:

• Contact an attorney immediately
• You may be able to file a motion to reopen if you had a valid reason for missing (like you never received notice or had a serious emergency)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Missing the hearing — Mark it on multiple calendars. Set reminders.
2. Arriving late — Security lines can be long. Arrive early.
3. Wrong courtroom — Check in with staff when you arrive.
4. Not updating your address — The court sends all notices by mail. If your address is wrong, you'll miss critical information.
5. Trying to explain your whole case — The master calendar is not where you argue your case. Save detailed explanations for your individual hearing.
6. Not requesting an interpreter — If you're not 100% comfortable in English, request an interpreter.
7. Admitting things without understanding — If you don't understand what you're being asked, say so. If you have an attorney, let them handle the pleadings.

What Happens Next

After your master calendar hearing, you'll either have another master calendar or an individual hearing scheduled. In the meantime:

• Meet all filing deadlines — If the judge sets a deadline to file your asylum application or other forms, meet it. Late filings can be rejected.
• Gather evidence — Work with your attorney to collect documents, affidavits, and other evidence for your case.
• Prepare your testimony — You'll likely testify at your individual hearing. Practice telling your story clearly and honestly.
• Don't miss any hearings — This cannot be overstated.

Get Legal Help

Immigration court is complicated, and the stakes are high. Having an attorney dramatically improves your chances of success. If you can't afford an attorney:

• Ask the court for the list of free legal service providers
• Contact local law school clinics
• Reach out to nonprofit immigration organizations

If you or a loved one needs help with removal proceedings, bond hearings, or asylum cases, contact Modern Law Group for a consultation.