NPR analysis shows skyrocketing number of 'no-shows' in immigration court

TLDR

NPR analysis shows a significant increase in the number of immigrants not showing up for their mandatory immigration court hearings, leading to their immediate deportation. This trend has accelerated in 2025, with over 50,000 removal orders issued 'in absentia'. Factors contributing to this include fear of arrest by ICE officers inside the courts, logistical barriers such as lost notices, and the financial burden of legal representation.

Well no shit. They'll be deported if they don't show up? You have them intercepted by ICE right before their hearings and deported anyways. So where is the incentive?

The only way they stick around is if they stop interacting with the government, even if they have a legitimately case.