Immigration Bonds: How to Be Released from ICE Detention
Has a loved one or family friend been arrested and detained for immigration reasons?
If so, you’ll need to get an immigration bond to help get them released from custody until their court appearance. It’s important to know that these bonds are only granted to certain people based on certain qualifications.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about immigration bonds. That way, you can deal with this tricky immigration issue in the least stressful way possible.
What Is an Immigration Bond?
Also known as ICE Form 1-352, an immigration bail bond is paid by undocumented individuals or Green Card holders to the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency (ICE) so they can be released. It serves as a guarantee or collateral that the detainee will show up to court. The money will be returned once the immigration case ends.
There are two main kinds of immigration bonds: voluntary departure bonds and delivery bonds.
How do Delivery Bonds Work?
Detainees pay a delivery bond to be released by the ICE.
To qualify for an immigration delivery bond, an immigrant must receive an arrest warrant and a notice of custody conditions. This bond basically allows immigrants to leave jail and be with their family with the promise that they’ll show up for their immigration hearings.
The judge determines the price of the bond depending on the seriousness of the crime. Once the bond is paid, the detainee is temporarily released until their court date. This gives them time to meet with their lawyer and prepare for their immigration case.
If the detainee shows up for their court date, they’re refunded for the amount of the delivery bond. If they don’t show up, however, their bond is forfeited.
How do Voluntary Departure Bonds Work?
The second kind of immigration bond is a voluntary departure bond.
This bond means that the detainee has agreed to leave the country they’re illegally residing in within a certain amount of time. This departure can be granted before the removal case begins or before the proceedings have ended.
A voluntary departure bond serves as a guarantee that the detainee will leave the country by the specified time. If the detainee does not leave the country by that date, their voluntary departure bond will be forfeited and they’ll face more serious legal issues.
How Does the Immigration Bond Process Work?
Anyone can post for the bail bond, including the detainee, and the bond must be paid for in cash.
The detainee can be released once the payment has been processed. The person who paid the bond will be reimbursed within a year or so, as long as the detainee shows up for all court appearances.
If the detainee cannot afford to pay the bond, they can turn to someone like an immigration bondsman who can pay the amount on their behalf.
How Much Does the Bond Cost?
The immigration judge sets the bond. That price depends on several factors, like the detainee’s criminal history and family ties.
If this person is seen as a high flight risk, the bond will be higher. In general, delivery bonds can range between $1,500 and $10,000. Departure bonds are around $500.
Quick, Stress-Free Immigration Bond Process
Knowing that a friend or loved one is being detained can be a terrifying and difficult time –– you don’t want dealing with the bond process to add to your stress. Use this guide to navigate the ordeal more smoothly so you can have your loved one released immediately.
Do you know someone who is currently being detained for immigration reasons? Amistad Bail and Immigration Bonds offers a free consultation to help you go through the bail bond process with as little stress as possible.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.