Yilian Martínez, a Cuban woman known on TikTok as @yilian8508, shared her experience from her first immigration hearing held on August 6 in Orlando, Florida. Presided over by Judge Richard Jamadar, she detailed the proceedings in a video. Martínez recounted that the courtroom contained "around 20 to 30 people," with the initial sessions conducted via video call for "three individuals who had attorneys." The remainder, including herself, faced the judge without legal representation.
“I'm not suggesting attending without a lawyer,” she clarified, “but here's what happened.” She explained that everyone had their charges and rights read to them before being asked individually if they consented to the statements and agreed to reschedule the hearing. “We all agreed, and each of us had our hearings postponed… all were set for 2027,” she confirmed. To her, this is positive news, offering time to see what unfolds or to secure legal representation.
Martínez concluded her video with a reassuring message: “That was it, a big scare, but it's over, and now we wait until 2027. Goodbye and blessings, bye.” Her post garnered numerous comments from fellow migrants who shared similar experiences with the same judge, expressing relief over the extended timeline to prepare their cases.
Many found solace in the decision, echoing sentiments like, “He's also my child's judge, good to know… trust in God, He is faithful and good.” Another shared: “I went on July 22, and we all got 2027 as well, though there were only four of us in my room.” Encouraging messages included “What joy, God is great… hope everything goes well,” “Health and blessings. It can be done,” and “Thank God, I'm so happy, hope you all receive your residencies soon.”
Comments confirmed a recurring pattern in these hearings: “That's my judge too” and “They say that to everyone at their first hearing,” indicating a shared experience. Overall, the mood was supportive, with faith that the extension would enable better legal preparation.
The postponement of immigration hearings for those with I-220A forms happens amidst significant pressure on this group of Cubans in the U.S. Recently, there have been detentions of migrants with this document in courts and ICE offices, even without criminal records. Notably, a 26-year-old was arrested in Miami after a routine appointment.
There have also been stories of women, despite lacking legal status, advocating for their right to start families in the U.S., arguing they won't "wait to have legal status to have a child." Meanwhile, community members, such as a Cuban official in Florida, have called for empathy, stating, “No one is completely safe” from restrictive measures.
Immigration attorney Willy Allen has stressed that green cards are still being issued to some I-220A holders, although the process is slow, requiring patience. According to Allen, courts in Miami, Orlando, or Houston have granted extensions while legal precedents that could favor these cases are debated. In other comments, he explained that certain I-220A holders without reporting requirements to ICE or court appearances have “the greatest blessing” and can live peacefully as long as they avoid crime.
Understanding the I-220A Immigration Process
What is the significance of the 2027 court date for I-220A holders?
The 2027 court date gives I-220A holders ample time to prepare their cases, secure legal representation, and potentially benefit from any favorable legal developments.
Why are I-220A holders experiencing delays in their hearings?
Delays in hearings for I-220A holders are part of the broader pressure on this group of Cuban migrants, alongside efforts to manage a high volume of cases and legal challenges.
How can I-220A holders live peacefully without legal status?
Holders of I-220A without reporting obligations to ICE or court have a degree of protection, allowing them to live without fear of immediate deportation as long as they do not engage in criminal activities.