Mega Master Calendar Hearings in Immigration Courts
On June 24, 2026, people awaited entry into the Los Angeles – N. Los Angeles Street Immigration Court. The Department of Homeland Security has introduced measures to expedite immigration cases. This strategy involves assigning numerous hearings simultaneously, creating a substantial docket for fast-tracking the process.
Administration Success
The current administration has succeeded in reducing the immigration court backlog for the first time in over a decade. Unlike previous years, the number of pending cases decreased from 3,716,106, peaking in fiscal 2024, to 3,416,921 in fiscal 2025 under the Trump administration. Today, this number has further reduced to 3,195,137 cases. While the courts remain busy, new methods are being adopted to decrease this backlog.
Increase in Hearing Volume
In May 2026, the number of individuals required at master calendar hearings increased dramatically. Known as ‘mega master calendar hearings,’ these sessions handle up to 150 cases simultaneously. This method resulted in a significant rise in in absentia removal orders, growing from 35,000 in May to 54,000 in June.
About Master Calendar Hearings
Master calendar hearings serve purposes such as pleadings, scheduling merits hearings, informing individuals of their rights, and explaining the charges listed in their Notice to Appear. Hearing notices are dispatched to the address provided by the alien. They must offer their contact details and update them as necessary for court communications. A hearing must be scheduled at least 10 days after the notice to allow individuals to secure legal counsel.
Consequences of Non-Appearance
Failure to appear at a removal proceeding can lead to an order of removal in absentia, provided ICE delivers evidence that proper notice was given and the alien is indeed removable. Critics argue these mega calendar hearings expedite removal at the cost of merits hearings where individuals could seek relief.
Options Following Removal Orders
Absentia removal orders cannot be appealed directly, but motions to reopen proceedings are permitted within 180 days of the order. If issues such as notice failure or custody status arise, motions can be filed anytime. Denied motions can be appealed to the Board of Immigration Appeals, and board decisions may be challenged in federal court.
Litigating Issues
- Hearing Notice: A presumption of delivery exists when notices are sent to the last known address, but this can be contested if actual delivery did not occur.
- Right to Counsel: Protection for the alien includes ensuring a master calendar is at least 10 days past notice. Continuances for legal preparation can be granted for valid reasons.
- Absentia Removal Order: Removability must be backed by clear evidence beyond mere non-appearance. Challenges can be lodged through motions to reopen and appeals.
Legal sustainability of removal orders depends on fair and properly conducted proceedings without due process violations. The utility of mega master calendar hearings lies in their ability to yield legally robust orders and tackle the backlog.
Nolan Rappaport, an experienced immigration law expert, contributed insights on this matter. His extensive background includes work on the House Judiciary Committee and the Board of Immigration Appeals.
Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media Inc. All rights reserved.