Getting a call that your family member or friend has been detained by immigration authorities is terrifying. You’re overwhelmed, confused, and likely unsure of what steps to take next. The good news? You don’t have to go through this alone. At Dmitry Law, we help families like yours every day to secure immigration bonds and bring loved ones home while their immigration case is pending.
Here’s everything you need to know about immigration bonds in Los Angeles and how we can help.
What Is an Immigration Bond?
An immigration bond is a type of financial guarantee that allows an undocumented immigrant to be temporarily released from ICE detention while awaiting their immigration court hearing. Think of it as a way to “bail out” someone from immigration custody — but the rules and procedures are different from criminal court.
There are several types of immigration bonds, each depending on how and where the person was detained and what their legal options are.
Types of Immigration Bonds Explained
1. Bond Issued by ICE Deportation Officers
In many cases, when a person is first detained by ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement), the deportation officers may determine they’re eligible for release and issue a bond — typically starting at $1,500 or more. This happens before the case goes to immigration court.
This bond is offered when the officer believes the person is not a flight risk or a danger to the community. If paid, the individual can go home and continue the legal process from outside detention.
Need help navigating this process? Our team at Dmitry Law can step in immediately to ensure your rights are protected.
2. Bond Set by an Immigration Judge
If ICE refuses to set a bond, or sets it too high, the next step is to request a bond hearing before an immigration judge. This happens when the individual remains in custody and needs the judge to review their eligibility for release.
The judge will consider several factors, such as:
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The person’s criminal history
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Immigration history
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Ties to the community
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Risk of flight
Bond amounts set by immigration judges can vary widely, often ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 or more, depending on the case details.
Pro tip: Having legal representation at your bond hearing significantly increases the chances of a favorable outcome. Contact Dmitry Law today for experienced support.
3. Voluntary Departure Bond
In some situations, an undocumented immigrant may agree to voluntary departure, which allows them to leave the country on their own within a specific time period.
To ensure compliance, a $500 voluntary departure bond is required. If the person leaves as promised, the bond is refunded. However, failure to depart on time will result in forfeiture of the bond — and more serious consequences.
This option is often misunderstood and should only be considered after reviewing all other legal options with a qualified immigration attorney.
⚖️ Why Legal Help Matters for Immigration Bonds
The immigration bond process is not only confusing — it can also feel hopeless without proper guidance. Many families end up paying too much, or worse, missing critical steps that delay their loved one’s release. With the right attorney, you can avoid unnecessary stress and make informed decisions.
At Dmitry Law, we:
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Evaluate your loved one’s eligibility for bond
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Request and prepare for bond hearings
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Negotiate for the lowest bond possible
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Walk you through every step of the bond payment process
Our goal is to bring your family back together — fast.
What Happens After Paying the Bond?
Once a bond is paid, the detainee is released from custody and can return home while their case proceeds. However, it’s important to understand:
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The bond does not cancel deportation proceedings.
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The person must still attend all court hearings.
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Violating bond conditions could result in re-detention and bond forfeiture.
This is why working with experienced immigration counsel like Dmitry Law is essential — we stay involved throughout your case, not just at the bond stage.
Need Help Now? Contact Dmitry Law Today
Time is critical when a loved one is in immigration detention. Let us help you act fast and smart to secure their release and protect their future.
Serving Los Angeles and surrounding areas, we specialize in:
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Immigration Bonds
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Deportation Defense
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Asylum & Green Card cases
Visit our Immigration Bonds page to get started, or head over to our main site to explore all of our immigration legal services.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I know if my loved one qualifies for an immigration bond?
It depends on several factors like prior immigration history, criminal record, and risk of flight. We can help assess eligibility right away.
How long does it take to get someone released after paying the bond?
It can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days, depending on the detention facility and case status.
Can I get the bond money back?
Yes, if the individual follows all court orders and appears at every hearing, the bond will be refunded at the end of the case.
✨ Final Thoughts
Don’t leave your loved one’s future to chance. The immigration bond process can be overwhelming, but with the right team on your side, you’re not alone. At Dmitry Law, we’ve helped countless families reunite — and we’re ready to help you too.
Call us today for a confidential consultation or visit our Immigration Bonds page for more information.