Bond in Ohio: What to Do in the First 72 Hours After an ICE Arrest

Quick Answer

Within the first 72 hours after an ICE arrest in Ohio, act immediately:

• Contact an immigration lawyer such as the Herman Legal Group. Consulting an immigration attorney increases the chance of receiving a bond and successfully navigating the immigration process. Many immigration attorneys offer services in multiple languages to assist diverse communities in Ohio.
• Locate your loved one through the ICE Detainee Locator Tool , and
• Request a bond hearing in the Cleveland Immigration Court .

Fast action is key — it can mean the difference between release and months in detention. Being detained by ICE can be a frightening experience for immigrants and their families. Immigrants who are detained might face severe emotional and financial consequences, making legal support crucial. Many immigrants face difficulties in locating an attorney due to limited availability in their area.

Fast Facts

• ICE must issue a Notice to Appear (NTA) shortly after arrest.
• Ohio detainees are held in county jails under ICE contracts, not private ICE centers.
• Bond hearings happen mainly in Cleveland EOIR (sometimes Detroit).
• Typical bonds: $5,000–$15,000. Immigration bonds in Ohio can vary in amount, typically ranging from $1,500 to over $25,000 depending on the case.
• Deadline: File bond request as early as possible within the first 72 hours.
• All noncitizens, including lawful permanent residents and undocumented individuals, have the right to request a court hearing to apply for relief from removal.

Ohio ICE Detention Facilities and Cleveland Immigration Court Contact Information

1. Northeast Ohio Correctional Center (NOCC)

• Address: 2240 Hubbard Road, Youngstown, OH 44505
• Phone: (330) 746-3777 (ext. 0 for detainee info)
• Visitation Hours: Friday–Sunday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. (by appointment)
• Notes: Operated by CoreCivic under ICE contract; houses male and female detainees for Northern Ohio.
• Official Listing: ICE Facility Page

2. Geauga County Safety Center

• Address: 12450 Merritt Road, Chardon, OH 44024
• Phone: (440) 279-2009 (jail main line); (216) 535-0368 for ICE status inquiries
• Visitation Hours: Saturday–Sunday 8:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. (advance scheduling required)
• Notes: ICE contract facility serving the Cleveland field office; detainees typically appear via video link for bond hearings.
• Official Listing: ICE Facility Page

3. Butler County Sheriff’s Office Jail

• Address: 705 Hanover Street, Hamilton, OH 45011
• Phone: (513) 785-1000 (general info); (513) 785-1106 for ICE detainee line
• Visitation Hours: Monday–Friday 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. (appointments must be scheduled 24 hours in advance)
• Notes: Primary ICE contract facility for Southwest Ohio and Cincinnati area; bond hearings usually assigned to Cleveland EOIR.
• Official Listing: ICE Facility Page

4. Seneca County Jail

• Address: 3040 South State Route 100, Tiffin, OH 44883
• Phone: (419) 448-5074 (main line)
• Visitation Hours: Saturday–Sunday 8:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m. (visitation by video appointment only)
• Notes: County facility under ICE contract; serves north-central Ohio region.
• Official Listing: ICE Facility Page

5. Corrections Center of Northwest Ohio (CCNO)

• Address: 3151 County Road 2425, Stryker, OH 43557 (Williams County)
• Phone: (419) 428-3800 (main switchboard for ICE detainee inquiries)
• Visitation Hours: Saturday–Sunday 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. (call ahead to confirm availability)
• Notes: Regional jail housing ICE detainees from northwest Ohio and Toledo area.
• Official Listing: ICE Facility Page

Cleveland Immigration Court (EOIR)

• Address: Carl B. Stokes U.S. Courthouse, 801 West Superior Avenue, Suite 13-100, Cleveland, OH 44113
• Phone: (216) 802-1100 (main desk)
• Email: Cleveland.Immigration.Court@usdoj.gov
• Hours: Monday–Friday 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (window services close at 4:00 p.m.)
• Jurisdiction: Handles all immigration bond and removal hearings for detainees held in Ohio and nearby regions.
• Official Listing: Justice.gov – Cleveland Immigration Court

Helpful Tip

Always verify visitation hours directly with the facility before traveling — ICE and county rules change frequently, especially after COVID-related updates. Family members and attorneys should bring photo ID and confirm the detainee’s A-Number (A#) for entry or phone inquiries.

1. The First 72 Hours — Why They Matter

When ICE arrests someone in Columbus, Cleveland, or Cincinnati, the first three days determine everything. The immigration court system does not guarantee free legal representation for those who cannot afford a lawyer.

During this window:

• ICE transfers detainees to a facility.
• ICE or the court decides whether to detain or release.
• The lawyer can request a bond hearing under INA § 236(a).

Family Checklist

• Call ICE Locator to confirm custody.
• Hire a verified Ohio immigration lawyer immediately. Detained immigrants should seek legal help as soon as possible to protect their rights and navigate their cases. Checking with the local state bar association is a good practice to ensure the immigration attorney is in good standing.
• Gather identification and proof of residence.
• Collect letters of support and employment records.
• Avoid unlicensed “notarios” who promise release.

“The first 72 hours after arrest can determine whether your loved one spends months detained — or comes home on bond.”
— Richard T. Herman, Esq.

2. Finding Your Loved One in Detention

Ohio ICE Holding Facilities

• Butler County Jail, 705 Hanover St, Hamilton, OH 45011
• Geauga County Safety Center, 12450 Merritt Rd, Chardon, OH 44024
• Seneca County Jail, 3040 S SR 100, Tiffin, OH 44883
• Northeast Ohio Correctional Center, 2240 Hubbard Rd, Youngstown, OH 44505

(See ICE Detention Facilities ).

Court Jurisdiction

Most cases go through the Cleveland Immigration Court ; some transfer to Detroit EOIR .

3. Understanding Immigration Bonds

Types of Bond

• ICE Bond: Set directly by ICE before referral to the court.
• Judge’s Bond: Set by EOIR judge if ICE declines to release.
• There are two primary types of immigration bonds: Delivery Bonds and Voluntary Departure Bonds. Voluntary Departure Bonds are given if the detainee agrees to leave the country at their own expense within a certain period of time.

Legal Basis

• INA § 236(a) — permits discretionary release on bond.
• INA § 236(c) — requires mandatory detention for certain criminal or security-related cases (no bond jurisdiction). Noncitizens with outstanding removal orders, prior deportations, and convictions for aggravated felonies are not eligible for bond.

Factors the Judge Considers

• Flight risk and community ties.
• Danger to community.
• Criminal history and immigration violations.
• Family or employment stability.

4. Preparing for the Bond Hearing

1. Attorney files bond motion with EOIR.
2. Collect proof of family ties, job, and residence.
3. Submit letters from employers, clergy, and community members.
4. Present organized bond packet (see below). It is advisable to present supporting documents during a bond hearing to increase the likelihood of being granted bail.
5. Judge sets or denies bond — your lawyer can appeal or seek redetermination.

“Bond hearings reward preparation and honesty. Judges look for community ties and stability.”
— Richard T. Herman

5. Family Action Plan

• Act within 72 hours.
• Hire local counsel.
• Prepare evidence and affidavits.
• Track ICE transfers.
• Document all calls and dates.

ALERT:

Don’t wait for ICE to reach out — your lawyer must initiate contact and advocate immediately.

6. Where Bonds Are Heard

• Cleveland Immigration Court — main Ohio venue.
• Detroit Immigration Court — for transferred cases.

7. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting too long to act.
• Assuming ICE will notify family.
• Hiring non-lawyers.
• Submitting incomplete packets.
• Ignoring transfer updates.

8. Expert Commentary

“Families that call within hours — not days — often secure release quickly. Time and preparation are everything.”
— Richard T. Herman, Esq.

9. Legal Relief Beyond Bond

After release, your attorney can pursue:

• Asylum ( I-589 )
• Cancellation of Removal (EOIR-42A/B)
• Adjustment of Status ( I-485 )
• Marriage-based Green Card ( Marriage Green Card Guide )

10. Resource Directory

Official Sources:

• ICE Detainee Locator Tool
• Cleveland Immigration Court Info
• EOIR Automated Case Portal

Ohio Support & Legal Help:

• Catholic Charities Migration Services – Cleveland
• Ohio Justice & Policy Center

11. Comparing Ohio Immigration Law Firms

12. Who Is Eligible for Bond — and What to Do if It’s Denied

A. Who Qualifies for Bond

Under INA § 236(a), most non-citizens detained by ICE may request bond if they:

• Have no serious criminal convictions;
• Pose no flight risk;
• Have U.S. family or community ties; and
• Entered lawfully or are not subject to reinstated removal.

B. Who Is Not Eligible (Mandatory Detention)

INA § 236(c) requires detention without bond for:

• Convictions for aggravated felonies, drug trafficking, or crimes of violence;
• Prior deportation orders with illegal re-entry;
• Suspected national-security grounds.

These are called mandatory detention cases, meaning judges have no discretion to release.
Only a federal habeas petition can challenge unlawful or prolonged detention.

(See 8 U.S.C. § 1226 ).

C. Preparing the Bond Motion

A strong Bond Packet includes:

• Sponsor affidavit with ID and address;
• Proof of residence (lease, mortgage, utilities);
• Employment verification;
• Marriage/birth certificates of U.S. family;
• Community letters from churches or civic leaders;
• Evidence of rehabilitation or school records;
• Copies of pending USCIS filings (I-130, I-485, asylum, etc.).
• Common conditions for bond release typically include obeying laws, maintaining or seeking employment, and refraining from alcohol use.

Label and paginate everything — a clean file reflects credibility.

“Bond hearings reward organization and humanity. Show the judge your life, not just your paperwork.”
— Richard T. Herman

D. If Bond Is Too High or Denied

If the bond amount is excessive:

• File a Bond Redetermination Motion showing financial hardship.
• Submit updated affidavits and income documentation.
• Argue proportionality — excessive bonds may violate due process.

If the IJ denies bond entirely, you can:

1. Appeal to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) within 30 days.
2. File a motion to reopen if new evidence arises.
3. File habeas corpus in federal district court to challenge unlawful detention.

If you violate bond conditions, your bond can be revoked and an arrest warrant issued.

1. Appeal to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) within 30 days.
2. File a motion to reopen if new evidence arises.
3. File habeas corpus in federal district court to challenge unlawful detention.

13. Recent Case Law & Habeas Strategy for EWI (Entry Without Inspection)

A. BIA’s New Interpretation

In Matter of Yajure Hurtado (2025), the BIA ruled that people who entered without inspection (EWI) are treated as “applicants for admission” under INA § 235(b)(2) — meaning immigration judges have no jurisdiction to set bond.
This decision effectively removes bond eligibility for many long-term undocumented Ohio residents.
(American Immigration Council Analysis)

B. What It Means for Ohio Detainees

If someone entered unlawfully years ago and is now detained by ICE:

• The IJ may issue a “no jurisdiction” ruling on bond.
• Only federal courts can now review detention legality.
• Your lawyer must quickly confirm under which statute ICE detained the person — § 235(b) vs. § 236(a).

C. Habeas Corpus: The Federal Alternative

When EOIR denies jurisdiction, the only avenue is a writ of habeas corpus in U.S. District Court (Northern or Southern District of Ohio).
The habeas petition argues:

• Detention is unlawful or prolonged without judicial review.
• EOIR’s “no jurisdiction” interpretation violates due process.
• The detainee should receive a bond hearing or be released.

Federal courts have authority under 28 U.S.C. § 2241 to review these detentions.

(See American Immigration Litigation Center Guide ).

D. Strategy for Families and Attorneys

• Determine early if detainee is classified under § 235(b)(2) (EWI) or § 236(a) (bond-eligible).
• Prepare dual strategy: bond motion + habeas backup.
• File habeas in the district where the facility is located (e.g., Northern District of Ohio for Youngstown, Southern District for Butler County).
• Include medical, humanitarian, or family hardship documentation in habeas petition.
• Track transfers carefully to maintain jurisdiction.

“If your loved one entered without inspection and ICE claims the judge can’t set bond — act fast. File habeas in federal court before transfers make it harder.”
— Richard T. Herman

14. How to Prepare a Motion for Bond in Immigration Court

When your loved one is detained by ICE in Ohio, a well-prepared motion for bond can make the difference between release and prolonged detention. In Ohio, bond hearings require compelling legal arguments to prove the individual is not a flight risk or danger to the community.

This motion is your formal written request asking the immigration judge (IJ) to hold a hearing and determine whether your family member qualifies for release under INA § 236(a).

Because bond hearings in Ohio are usually handled by the Cleveland Immigration Court, the motion must comply with both EOIR procedures and local court practices.

A. Purpose of the Motion for Bond

A motion for bond serves two main goals:

1. To secure a hearing before the immigration judge to review ICE’s custody decision.
2. To demonstrate eligibility for discretionary release by showing that the detainee is not a flight risk or a danger to the community. Delivery Bonds allow a person who has been detained by ICE to be released while requiring them to appear in court.

1. To secure a hearing before the immigration judge to review ICE’s custody decision.
2. To demonstrate eligibility for discretionary release by showing that the detainee is not a flight risk or a danger to the community.

A strong motion tells a clear story — why the person should be trusted to appear for future hearings and why detention is unnecessary.

B. Where and How to File

• Court: Cleveland Immigration Court, 801 W. Superior Ave., Suite 13-100, Cleveland, OH 44113
• Filing Format: Typed or neatly printed on 8½ × 11-inch paper
• Copies: One original to the court, one to the ICE Office of Chief Counsel (located in the same building)
• Method: Deliver in person, by courier, or by certified mail with tracking
• Include: A Proof of Service showing the motion was provided to ICE counsel

(See official EOIR filing instructions at justice.gov).

C. What to Include in the Motion for Bond

The motion should have the following structure:

1. Case Caption: Include the detainee’s full name, A-Number, and “Motion for Bond Redetermination.”
2. Introduction: Briefly explain who is detained, where, and why the court has jurisdiction under INA § 236(a).
3. Background: Describe the person’s immigration and family history in the U.S.
4. Argument:
   • The detainee is not a flight risk (explain family ties, employment, community support).
   • The detainee is not a danger to the community (clean criminal record or evidence of rehabilitation).
   • ICE has offered no valid reason for continued detention.
5. Request for Relief: Ask the judge to:
   • Grant a bond hearing; and
   • Set bond at a reasonable amount (e.g., $5,000 or less).
6. Exhibits (Bond Packet): Attach supporting documents (see below).
7. Attorney Signature and EOIR-28 Form: Required for all represented detainees.

D. Supporting Evidence (“Bond Packet”)

The bond packet gives credibility to your motion and is often the single most persuasive part of the case. Include:

• Sponsor Affidavit: From a U.S. citizen or green card holder offering housing and supervision.
• Proof of Residence: Lease, mortgage, or utility bills showing stable address in Ohio.
• Proof of Employment or School: Pay stubs, employer letter, or enrollment verification.
• Family Documentation: Marriage certificate, birth certificates of U.S. citizen children.
• Community Letters: Statements from pastors, teachers, or civic leaders.
• Evidence of Rehabilitation: Completion of counseling, AA/NA programs, or community service.
• Pending USCIS Filings: Copies of I-130, I-485, or asylum applications.
• Character References: At least three brief letters highlighting honesty, reliability, and family commitment.

Expert Tip:

Judges appreciate clarity — organize your exhibits with a table of contents and label each tab (e.g., “Exhibit A – Sponsor Affidavit”).

E. Filing Timeline

• File the motion as soon as possible after the arrest (ideally within 72 hours).
• The Cleveland EOIR usually schedules bond hearings within 5–10 days of filing.
• If ICE has not yet filed the Notice to Appear (NTA), the court lacks jurisdiction — your attorney can pressure ICE to file promptly.

F. After the Motion Is Filed

1. ICE Response: ICE trial attorneys may oppose or consent to bond.
2. Bond Hearing: The judge reviews your evidence and sets or denies bond.
3. Payment: If granted, the sponsor pays the bond at an ICE office using a cashier’s check or money order.
4. Release: The detainee is released within 24–48 hours, unless ICE appeals.
5. Appeal Rights: If bond is denied or set too high, you may file a Bond Appeal with the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) within 30 days.

(See Appealing a Bond Denial Before the BIA).

G. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Filing without Proof of Service to ICE counsel
• Submitting uncertified translations of documents
• Forgetting to attach EOIR-28 (notice of attorney appearance)
• Providing outdated or incomplete contact information for the sponsor
• Using emotional letters without verifiable facts

15. FAQ Section on Ohio Immigration Bonds

Q: How soon can someone be released on bond?
A: Often within 3–5 days once a lawyer files a bond motion and the judge schedules a hearing.

Q: What is mandatory detention?
A: Cases under INA § 236(c) where serious crimes or prior removals prevent any bond.

Q: What if ICE or the judge says there’s no jurisdiction?
A: Likely an EWI case under § 235(b)(2). Your attorney must file a federal habeas petition.

Q: Can bond amounts be reduced?
A: Yes — lawyers can request a bond redetermination or appeal excessive amounts.

Q: Who can pay immigration bond?
A: A U.S. citizen or LPR with valid ID over age 18.

Q: Will bond money be refunded?
A: Yes, if the immigrant attends all hearings and complies with court orders.

Q: Can an asylum seeker get bond?
A: Sometimes — if not subject to mandatory detention and showing credible fear or strong equities.

Legal Guidance from Herman Legal Group

The Herman Legal Group has handled hundreds of bond motions and hearings across Ohio — from Cleveland and Columbus to Dayton and Youngstown.

Our team prepares comprehensive bond packets, negotiates with ICE, and ensures filings meet every procedural requirement. Contacting several immigration attorneys at once can increase the chances of finding one with availability to take your case.

For immediate help preparing a bond motion, contact:
📞 1-800-808-4013 or Schedule Online

“A bond motion is not just paperwork — it’s a chance to humanize your client and show the judge they belong home with family.”
— Richard T. Herman, Esq.

Ohio Bond & Removal Defense Resource Directory

Official Government Resources

• ICE Detainee Locator Tool
• Cleveland Immigration Court Information
• EOIR Case Information Portal
• USCIS Forms & Filing Fees

Herman Legal Group Guides & Articles

Immigration Bond Process & Hearings

• Immigration Bond Hearing
• How to Win Your Bond Hearing in Immigration Court
• What is a Motion for Bond Determination?
• Getting a Bondsman to Underwrite Bond

Eligibility, Denials & Appeals

• Am I Eligible for a Bond?
• What Happens If You Are Unable to Post a Bond?
• Appealing a Bond Denial Before the BIA

Mandatory Detention & EWI Case Law

• Mandatory Detention Explained Under INA §236(c)
• Mandatory Detention for EWI: How the New EOIR Interpretation Limits Bond Jurisdiction
• Recent Case Law on EWI Bonds and Federal Habeas Strategies