Trump Administration Moves to Strip Bond Hearings from Immigrants: What It Means for You

In a major policy shift, the Trump administration is taking steps to keep more immigrants detained by denying them the right to bond hearings, a move that could affect millions of people contesting deportation.

According to a newly surfaced internal memo from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the agency is now interpreting existing immigration law to prohibit the release of many noncitizens after arrest.

This guidance, reportedly issued by Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons on July 8, represents a sharp reversal of long-standing legal standards governing immigration detention. The Washington Post first reported the change, and Reuters confirmed it had reviewed a portion of the memo.

The memo encourages ICE prosecutors to pursue “alternative arguments in support of continued detention” during immigration court proceedings, signaling a coordinated effort to keep individuals in custody for the duration of their cases.

This policy shift comes amid President Trump’s continued push for mass deportations, citing what he characterizes as record levels of illegal immigration under his predecessor, President Joe Biden. In line with this agenda, Congress recently passed a spending bill requiring the detention of at least 100,000 individuals: a dramatic increase from the previous record of 58,000 individuals held in custody as of late June.

Legal experts warn this move could have massive implications. Tom Jawetz, a former official with the Department of Homeland Security under the Biden administration, called it “a radical departure that could explode the detention population.”

The new interpretation is expected to face legal challenges, as it departs from established precedent and could be seen as infringing on due process rights. However, until those cases make their way through the courts, many individuals could find themselves detained without access to bond hearings.

What Should You Do If You or a Loved One May Be Affected?

If you or someone you care about is currently involved in deportation proceedings, or could be soon, it’s crucial to understand your rights and options under this evolving policy landscape. Immigration law is changing rapidly, and aggressive enforcement measures like this one can have lasting impacts on families and communities.

Don’t wait. Contact our experienced NYC immigration attorneys at Pollack, Pollack, Isaac & DeCicco to schedule a confidential consultation. We can help you navigate your case and fight for your freedom.

Call us today at 212-233-8100 to schedule your consultation.

About The Author

Conrad E. Pollack

Conrad E. Pollack is the Managing Partner and Director of Immigration at Pollack, Pollack, Isaac & DeCicco, LLP. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from New York University and earned his J.D. from Brooklyn Law School. With over three decades of experience in immigration law, Conrad has helped countless clients achieve their American Dream. Under his leadership, PPID has expanded significantly, opening new offices in Peekskill and Brooklyn, NY. He is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association and has been recognized for his professional excellence with numerous awards and distinctions. Education: Magna Cum Laude graduate from New York University; J.D. from Brooklyn Law School. Awards: Recipient of numerous professional excellence awards. Memberships: Active member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association.

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