🧑🏽‍🤝‍🧑🏾 You Don’t Have to Go Alone: Accompaniment Programs for Immigration Court

Facing immigration court can be overwhelming—especially for young people navigating the system for the first time. But you don’t have to go through it alone. Across the country, accompaniment programs exist to support immigrants during their legal journey. These programs offer emotional support, guidance, and solidarity, without putting anyone at legal risk.  

Continue reading to learn more about: 

• what accompaniment programs are,  
• why it’s crucial to go to your hearing in immigration court,  
• who can accompany you to court (and who should not),  
• and how to find an accompaniment program near you.  
   

What are accompaniment programs? 

Accompaniment programs are community-based initiatives that pair immigrants with trained volunteers who attend court hearings, check-ins, or other immigration-related appointments. These volunteers do not provide legal representation, but they offer: 

• Emotional support during stressful moments 
• Help navigating logistics like transportation or paperwork 
• A visible show of solidarity that can positively impact how someone is treated in court 

Some programs also connect participants with legal aid, housing support, or mental health resources. 
 

Why it’s crucial to attend your court hearing: 

Missing a scheduled immigration court hearing can have serious consequences. If you don’t show up, the judge may issue a removal order in your absence, which can lead to deportation.  

If you’re unsure about your court date or need help getting there, accompaniment programs can help you stay organized and supported. Showing up is one of the most important things you can do to protect your future. 

• 📌 Note: remember to check the status of your case frequently, since the date, time, and location of your hearing can change. For more information about how to check your case status, click here.  
   

Who can accompany you (and who shouldn’t): 

When deciding who is going to accompany you to your hearing, it’s natural to want family or friends to go with you. However, it’s important to keep in mind that there is a high risk that undocumented individuals could identified and/or detained in a federal space like immigration court. 

Instead, accompaniment programs match you with trained volunteers who are safe to attend and know how to navigate the system. These volunteers are often part of faith groups, nonprofits, or immigrant rights organizations. 
 

How to find an accompaniment program near you: 

Here are a few ways to connect with a local accompaniment program: 

• Contact ImportaMi! Our community liaisons are here to help connect you with local resources. 
  • 📍 Have you checked out our service map? We regularly add trusted and reliable programs to this map. 
• Ask your social worker, if you have one, or a legal service provider, if you’re already in touch with one. 
• Reach out to local immigrant advocacy groups; many run accompaniment initiatives or can refer you. 
• Search online using terms like “immigration court accompaniment [your city]” or “immigrant support programs near me.” 
• Contact faith-based organizations like churches, synagogues, or mosques—they often host or support accompaniment efforts. 
• If you're in school, your counselor or social worker may also be able to help you find resources. 
   

You’re not alone! 

Immigration court can feel isolating, but accompaniment programs remind us that community is powerful. Whether you’re facing a first hearing or you're returning for follow-ups, these programs exist to make the entire process a little bit less intimidating.