General Information on Bonds
Some detainees qualify for bonds. This means that you are able to fight your case from the outside. Remember that you are still in proceedings—the case is not over. It is very important to still come to all scheduled hearings.
The minimum amount for a bond is $1500. If you appear at all scheduled appointments, the money will be returned to the person who paid the bond. If the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has determined that you qualify for a bond, an amount will be indicated on your Notice of Custody Determination. You may request a bond hearing to reconsider whether you are eligible for a bond or to adjust the bond amount. You may only request this hearing once, so it is important to be well-prepared for it. At the hearing, you must show the judge two main things: (1) you are not dangerous and (2) you will not try to run away if released. At the bond hearing, you should submit proof of these two things. Helpful items can include letters from employers, family and friends. These demonstrate to the Judge that people believe in you and that you have reasons not to run away if released. These people can also appear as witnesses at the hearing. If you have drug abuse or domestic violence in the past, but have taken substance abuse or anger management classes, submit evidence that the classes have been successfully completed. If you regularly attend religious services, submit a letter from a religious leader. Showing proof that you pay your taxes is also good.
All of these documents should be collected together and organized. If possible, provide a table of contents so that the Judge and DHS attorney can look through the documents easily. One copy of the documents should be submitted to the Judge, and one copy to the DHS attorney.
It is important to note that the Judge has the power to lower or raise the bond amount, so you should think carefully about requesting a bond hearing if you have no supporting documents or witnesses and are not prepared to discuss your convictions.
If you are determined eligible for a bond and are able to pay it, (click here for information on bail bondsmen) your case will be transferred to the Immigration Court in downtown Denver, and you will appear there for all future hearings.
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Rocky
Mountain Immigrant Advocacy Network
3489 W. 72nd Ave Suite 211 Westminster, CO 80030
phone (303) 433-2812 • fax (303) 433-2823
this
site was last updated on
June 30, 2006
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