Navigating the U.S. immigration system can be complex, and understanding the specific courts is crucial. The Varick Street Immigration Court in New York City plays a vital role in this system. This guide provides essential information about the court, its procedures, and resources available to those involved in immigration proceedings. Located at 201 Varick Street, this court operates under the jurisdiction of the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), within the Department of Justice.
Understanding the Dedicated Docket at Varick Street
The Varick Street Immigration Court is notably one of the locations utilizing a Dedicated Docket, a process implemented in July 2021. This initiative aims to expedite the resolution of certain immigration cases. Specifically, families apprehended between ports of entry on or after May 28, 2021, placed in removal proceedings, and enrolled in Alternatives to Detention (ATD) may be assigned to this docket. The goal of the Dedicated Docket is for immigration judges to issue decisions within 300 days of the initial master calendar hearing, promoting a more efficient legal process.
About the Varick Street Immigration Court
Operating under the umbrella of the Office of the Chief Immigration Judge and the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), which is part of the Department of Justice, the Varick Street Immigration Court is a federal court responsible for adjudicating immigration cases. It’s important to understand that the EOIR is separate from other Department of Homeland Security (DHS) agencies like U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Contacting the Court: Location, Hours, and Phone
For those needing to contact the Varick Street Immigration Court, here are the essential details:
Address:
201 Varick Street, 5th Floor Room 507
New York, NY 10014
Operating Hours:
- Court Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
- Window Filing Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Phone:
646-638-5766
For information regarding parking and public transit options near 201 Varick Street, as well as details about building access and security procedures, it is advisable to contact the court directly or visit the EOIR website for any updated guidance.
Key Personnel at the Varick Street Court
- Assistant Chief Immigration Judge: Ubaid ul-Haq
- Court Administrator: Maria Llerena
For specific requests related to Asylum EAD clock corrections for cases at the Varick Street Immigration Court, you can reach out via email at [email protected]. When submitting a request, ensure you include:
- Applicant’s Name
- Applicant’s A Number
- The Immigration Court with Jurisdiction (Varick Street)
- Detailed case history, clock status, reason for adjustment request, and the requested time adjustment.
Please note: This email is exclusively for Asylum EAD Clock requests. The court will not respond to other inquiries sent to this mailbox.
Immigration Judges at Varick Street
The Varick Street Immigration Court is staffed by a number of dedicated Immigration Judges, including:
- Lucy Billings
- Shayne R. Burnham
- Charles R. Conroy
- John E. DeCure
- Jennifer A. Durkin
- Margaret Kolbe
- Lisa W. Ling
- Thomas Mulligan
- Thomas J. Mungoven
- David A. Norkin
- Francisco R. Prieto
- Dara F. Reid
- Shifra Rubin
- Wendy Wedderburn
Backup Assistant Chief Immigration Judge: Khalilah M. Taylor
Understanding Immigration Court Procedures
Navigating the procedures of any immigration court, including the Varick Street Immigration Court, requires familiarity with established practices. The EOIR Policy Manual serves as the primary resource for understanding these procedures. This manual provides comprehensive guidance on practice before all immigration courts and is an essential resource for legal professionals and individuals representing themselves. You can access the EOIR Policy Manual online for detailed information.
Helpful Resources and Information for Court Users
The EOIR provides a range of helpful links and resources to assist individuals involved in immigration court proceedings at Varick Street and across the country:
News Media and Congressional Inquiries
For news media or congressional inquiries related to the Varick Street Immigration Court or any immigration court, please contact the EOIR Communications and Legislative Affairs Division (CLAD):
Communications and Legislative Affairs Division
5107 Leesburg Pike, Suite 1800
Falls Church, VA 22041
Phone: 703-305-0289
Email: [email protected]
Court Holidays and Emergency Closures
The Varick Street Immigration Court operates Monday through Friday, excluding federal holidays. A list of observed federal holidays is available on the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) website. In cases of inclement weather or emergencies, the court may unexpectedly close. For up-to-date information on court closures or changes to operating hours, refer to the EOIR’s official Twitter and Facebook accounts.
eRegistry for Legal Representatives
Attorneys and accredited representatives who intend to represent clients in immigration court, including the Varick Street Immigration Court, are required to register with EOIR through the eRegistry system. Details on the eRegistry Validation Process are available online.
Legal Self-Help Resources
The EOIR’s Office of Legal Access Programs offers numerous self-help materials designed to assist respondents in immigration court. These resources cover various topics, including guidance on addressing changes of address and missed hearings. These self-help materials are invaluable for individuals navigating the immigration court process without legal representation.
Beware of Immigration Fraud: Notarios
It is crucial to be aware of immigration fraud, particularly involving individuals known as notarios. EOIR cautions against notarios who may falsely claim to offer legal assistance but are not authorized to represent individuals in immigration court or provide legal advice. Seek qualified legal counsel from licensed attorneys or accredited representatives.
Appealing an Immigration Court Decision
Decisions made by the Varick Street Immigration Court, like all immigration courts, can be appealed to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA). Instructions on filing an appeal, along with the necessary form (EOIR-26, Notice of Appeal), are accessible online. The BIA website provides further information on the appeals process and relevant procedures.
Virtual Law Library and Legal Resources
The EOIR Virtual Law Library (VLL) is a comprehensive online resource containing a wealth of legal materials, including country conditions research and other reference documents pertinent to immigration law.
Observing Court Hearings
Immigration court proceedings at the Varick Street Immigration Court are generally open to the public. Guidelines for observing hearings, including information on when hearings may be closed and expected conduct, are available online. Note that electronic devices, including recording equipment and cameras, are prohibited in immigration courtrooms.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Varick Street Immigration Court. For the most current and detailed information, always refer to the official website of the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR).
