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Date: 09/16/2025

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For more information on immigration enforcement (ICE) raids in Illinois, and to report sightings, visit Immigration arrests and workplace raids basics.
Important notice: Immigration laws are changing fast. Some information on our website may not be fully up to date. We’re working to review and update our content as quickly as we can. If you have questions about your case, it’s a good idea to talk to an immigration lawyer Someone who represents clients in courts or who gives legal advice .

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Immigrants & Immigration

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Immigration detention basics Guide

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Every year, more people are held in custody for immigration violations. After an immigrant accused of violating immigration laws is arrested by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), they can be taken to an immigration detention center. Long-time lawful residents with criminal convictions are also at risk of being detained Includes juveniles held prior to a court makes a decision about their case,  awaiting transfer to adult criminal court, or awaiting a hearing or trial in adult criminal court. . Immigrants can be held in custody for several months or longer while fighting their cases. It is critical for someone who is in detention to speak with an immigration lawyer to try to get help.

Learn more about Immigration detention common questions.

Where are people being held?
Does a person have to stay in immigration detention while waiting for their removal hearing?
Can US Immigration and Customs Enforcement make a person give up their right to a hearing?
Can someone be in detention if the police arrested them?
If immigration officials arrest someone, will they be deported right away?
If an immigration judge already ordered someone deported before their arrest, is there anything they can do?
If someone wants to be deported, do they need a removal hearing?
If immigration officials want to deport someone without a removal hearing, do they have any options?
Where can I find legal help if I am detained by immigration officials?
Last full review by a subject matter expert
August 25, 2025
Last revised by staff
August 28, 2025

About our legal information

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Finding someone who may be in immigration detention
Paying an immigrant's bond

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Immigration detention common questions

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Take action

Finding someone who may be in immigration detention
Paying an immigrant's bond

Learn more

Immigration detention common questions
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© 2025 Illinois Legal Aid Online. 
All rights reserved.
 
ILAO is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. ILAO's tax identification number is 20-2917133.