Having witnesses to testify at an immigration court hearing can help a person’s case and increase their chances of being successful by testifying and showing proof. While a case is being considered in immigration court, the witnesses might be anyone who has knowledge that is important to the case and reliable to present.
The following is a non-exhaustive list of who can be a witness in your immigration court case:
- People related to the immigrant’s family or friends who have direct personal knowledge of the immigrant’s situation or past may fall into this category.
- Professionals with extensive knowledge in the subject related to the case, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, or specialists in the relevant topic.
- Members of law enforcement who are in possession of information that is relevant to the case.
- Employers or coworkers of the immigrant who can provide information regarding the immigrant’s work history, performance on the job, or moral character.
- Any additional individuals who have direct knowledge or information relevant to the case that they are willing to share.
Witnesses must be willing to testify voluntarily and must be accessible to attend the hearing either in person or remotely. This is a very crucial point to keep in mind. Written declarations or affidavits from witnesses who are unable to attend court in person may also be taken into consideration by the immigration court.
Your immigration court case’s facts and setup determine whether you require witnesses. You may not require witnesses if you have adequate evidence and papers. Yet, witnesses may be your only evidence if you have none. Remember that immigration court hearings can be complicated, so consult an immigration lawyer on how to submit your case. A lawyer can advise you on whether to bring witnesses to your hearing and prepare them to testify.
