Immigration Bond Determination Hearing (BDH) Attorney in Waco, Texas
Immigration Detention and Bond
Clear Answers and a Prepared Case From the First Day of Detention
A bond determination hearing, often called a BDH, is a custody redetermination before an immigration judge. The judge decides whether a detained person may be released while the removal case continues and, if so, on what bond amount. It is separate from the removal case and often held by video from the detention facility.
Our immigration attorneys locate detained family members and review whether a hearing is available under current law. They prepare the evidence and appear at the hearing. We work in English and Spanish. Call (254) 900-7947 as soon as you learn of an arrest.
What We Handle
How We Help With Bond Hearings
Locating Your Family Member
People are often moved between facilities in the first days after an ICE arrest, and the online record may lag. We search the ICE online detainee locator by A-number or by name, together with country of birth. We then confirm the facility by phone and identify which immigration court has jurisdiction.
Who May Be Eligible for a Hearing
Not every detained person can ask an immigration judge for bond. Eligibility depends on manner of entry, criminal history, mandatory detention categories, and current law and policy, which changed significantly in 2025. Many who entered without inspection are now treated as ineligible. We review the record and give you an honest answer.
Building the Evidence Packet
The detained person must show they are not a danger to the community and not a flight risk. We assemble a packet to meet that burden. It usually includes a sponsor letter with proof of the sponsor's status and address, plus evidence of family ties and employment. Tax returns, letters from community members, proof of prior court attendance, medical needs and rehabilitation evidence also help.
Representation at the Hearing
The judge reviews the packet, hears from the government attorney and may question the detained person or the sponsor. We present the evidence, respond to concerns about criminal history or missed hearings and present the case for release and for a bond amount the record supports. We prepare the sponsor for the judge's likely questions.
If Bond Is Denied or Set Too High
Either side may appeal to the Board of Immigration Appeals within 30 days. If circumstances change materially, such as a new sponsor or a resolved criminal case, a new hearing may be requested. When the detention itself may be unlawful, a federal habeas petition is sometimes an option. Learn about habeas corpus.
Our Process
What to Expect
- 1
Consultation
We review your immigration history, ask the questions that matter and tell you honestly which options may be available to you.
- 2
Case Preparation
We assemble your application, supporting evidence and translations, and prepare you for biometrics and interviews.
- 3
Filing and Follow-Through
We file with USCIS or the immigration court, track deadlines, respond to requests for evidence and keep you informed at every step.
After Release on Bond
Release on bond does not end the case. It moves to the non-detained docket, often in Dallas or San Antonio for Central Texas residents. You must keep your address current, report to ICE as directed and attend every hearing. Missing one can lead to a removal order and loss of the bond.
Your Waco Immigration Attorney
Work With an Attorney Devoted to Immigration Law
Esmeralda Sosa SerratosImmigration Attorney
Esmeralda Sosa Serratos is a Texas-licensed immigration attorney with over a decade of experience dedicated to representing immigrants and their families, with a particular focus on removal defense, immigration litigation, and complex immigration matters.
Where We Serve
Serving Waco and Central Texas
Our office is on Lake Air Drive in Waco, a short drive from downtown, Baylor University and the McLennan County Courthouse. We serve clients across Waco, Bellmead, Woodway, Hewitt, Robinson, Lorena, McGregor, West and the surrounding communities of McLennan County, as well as Temple, Killeen, Hillsboro and the rest of Central Texas. Consultations are available in person, by phone or by video, in English or Spanish.
Waco Office
Talk to an Attorney Today
Call our Waco office and speak with our bilingual team in English or Spanish.
Se Habla Español
- Hours: Mon–Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Office: 1215 Lake Air Dr, Waco, TX 76710
Get directions
FAQ
Bond Hearing FAQs
How much is an immigration bond?
The legal minimum is $1,500. There is no maximum, and the judge sets the amount based on the record, including ties to the community, criminal history and past compliance with court dates.
Who can pay the bond?
Bond is paid to ICE, never to the immigration court. A U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident pays it through ICE's online bond system, or in person where an ICE office still accepts payment. It is generally refunded to whoever posted it when the case ends and all conditions are met.
Where is the hearing held?
The immigration court that covers the detention facility holds the hearing, usually by video. Central Texas detainees are often held at Pearsall, Dilley, Conroe or Laredo. We appear wherever the case is assigned.
Does a criminal record matter?
Certain convictions, and under 2025 changes some pending charges, generally place a person in a mandatory detention category where an immigration judge cannot set bond. Other records do not bar a hearing but matter to the danger question. We obtain the court records and explain what they mean.
What does it cost?
Every case is different. The work depends on where your family member is held, whether a hearing is available under current law and how much evidence must be gathered. Fees and case expenses are explained in a written agreement before anything is signed.
Contact Us
Start With a Consultation
Whether you were hurt in an accident, need help with an immigration matter or are facing a criminal charge, the first step is a conversation. Tell us what happened, and we will explain your options in plain language, in English or Spanish.
Call (254) 900-7947 Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and talk with our bilingual team. Se habla español.
Call Us Today
(254) 900-7947Call (254) 900-7947Se Habla Español
- Hours: Mon–Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Office: 1215 Lake Air Dr, Waco, TX 76710
Get directions