Updates on Immigration Bond Cases

There are important updates on immigration bond and habeas cases for Virginians.

The good news:  

• On September 10, 2026, in a case called Lopez Garcia the Fourth Circuit reversed a Trump administration policy that prevented millions of undocumented people from seeking release from detention in a bond hearing in immigration court. 

• Now, for the first time in a year, many individuals may once again be able to seek release directly from the immigration court—without having to first file a habeas petition. This means that access to bond will be faster for many.  

This is a complicated win:  

• Bond cases are being denied in record numbers. While we celebrate this decision, we also recognize bond cases may continued being denied at very high rates.  

• Not everyone is eligible for bond. Mandatory detention rules will continue to prevent the possibility of release from immigration detention for many, even after this decision.   

Points to keep in mind:

• Consult a trustworthy attorney to determine if you should file a habeas petition first and to determine if you are eligible for immigration bond. This will depend on the details of your case.  

• If you or a loved one gets detained, please call the PODER VA hotline at 1-844-253-7882 to receive updated information on your legal options. 

Hear more details about these changes in our recent Facebook Live:

Last updated: 09/23/2026