Practical Guide
Newark Immigration Court — what to expect at 970 Broad Street.
A plain-English guide for respondents in removal proceedings at the Newark Immigration Court — logistics, security, parking, and what actually happens at Master Calendar and Individual hearings.
The Basics
Location, hours & getting there
Address
Newark Immigration Court (EOIR)
970 Broad Street
Newark, New Jersey 07102
Hours
Generally open Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Hearings may be scheduled as early as 8:30 a.m. Arrive at least 45 minutes before your hearing time.
Public transit
Newark Penn Station (NJ Transit, PATH, Amtrak) is roughly a 10-minute walk. The Newark Light Rail's Military Park stop is even closer.
Parking
Several paid garages are within a few blocks — on Mulberry Street, Halsey Street, and Raymond Boulevard. Street parking in downtown Newark is limited and metered.
Before You Walk In
Security & what to bring
The building has airport-style security run by the Federal Protective Service. Expect metal detectors and bag screening. Plan on one hour or more to get through during peak times.
Bring
- Government-issued photo ID
- Your Notice to Appear (NTA) and any hearing notices
- Copies of all documents previously filed with the court
- Any new evidence you plan to submit, in duplicate
- An interpreter request confirmation, if applicable
Do not bring
- Weapons of any kind, including pocket knives
- Recording or photography equipment
- Food or large beverages
- Oversized bags or luggage
In the Courtroom
Master Calendar vs. Individual hearings
Master Calendar
Short scheduling hearings. The judge confirms your identity and address, takes pleadings to the charges, identifies the relief you intend to seek, and sets filing deadlines and the date of your Individual hearing.
Individual (merits) hearing
Your trial. You and your witnesses testify under oath, the government attorney cross-examines, evidence is admitted, and the judge typically issues an oral decision granting or denying relief from removal.
FAQ
Common questions
Where is the Newark Immigration Court located?
The Newark Immigration Court is located at 970 Broad Street, Newark, New Jersey 07102. It is part of the U.S. Department of Justice's Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) and is where removal (deportation) proceedings for cases venued in New Jersey are heard.
What time should I arrive for my immigration court hearing?
Plan to arrive at least 45 minutes before your scheduled Master Calendar or Individual hearing. Security screening, locating the correct courtroom, and checking in with the court clerk takes time. Arriving late can result in an in-absentia removal order.
What should I bring to Newark Immigration Court?
Bring a government-issued photo ID, your hearing notice (Notice to Appear or hearing notice), copies of all filed documents, and any new evidence you intend to submit. Do not bring weapons, large bags, food, or recording devices — they will not pass security.
Can I bring my phone into immigration court?
Cell phones are generally allowed through security but must be silenced and put away inside the courtroom. Recording, photographing, or filming court proceedings is strictly prohibited.
Where can I park near 970 Broad Street?
There are several paid parking garages within a few blocks of 970 Broad Street, including garages on Mulberry Street, Halsey Street, and Raymond Boulevard. Street parking in downtown Newark is limited and metered. NJ Transit's Newark Penn Station is roughly a 10-minute walk away.
What happens at a Master Calendar hearing?
A Master Calendar hearing is a short scheduling hearing where the immigration judge confirms your identity, addresses pleadings to the charges in the Notice to Appear, identifies relief you intend to seek (asylum, cancellation of removal, adjustment of status, etc.), and sets deadlines for filings and a future Individual hearing.
What happens at an Individual (merits) hearing?
An Individual hearing is your trial. You and your witnesses testify under oath, the government attorney (ICE OPLA) cross-examines, evidence is submitted, and the judge typically issues an oral decision granting or denying relief from removal. Hearings can last from a few hours to a full day.
What happens if I miss my immigration court hearing?
Missing a scheduled hearing usually results in an in-absentia order of removal entered against you, and you can be deported without further notice. You may file a motion to reopen if you can show exceptional circumstances or that you never received proper notice — strict deadlines apply.
Do I have the right to an attorney in immigration court?
You have the right to be represented by an attorney, but at your own expense — immigration court does not provide a public defender. Statistically, respondents with counsel are far more likely to obtain relief than those who appear pro se. We represent clients before the Newark Immigration Court regularly.
Are interpreters available at Newark Immigration Court?
Yes. The court provides interpreters at no cost for Master Calendar and Individual hearings in most common languages, including Spanish, Portuguese, Mandarin, French, Haitian Creole, Arabic, and many others. Notify the court in advance if you need a less common language.
Have a Hearing Coming Up?
Don't go to Newark Immigration Court alone.
We've represented clients before the Newark Immigration Court for decades. Talk to a Perez attorney before your next hearing.