Immigration bonds, explained
How an Immigration Bond Works in California, From ICE Custody to Release
In California, ICE arrests from Los Angeles, Orange County, and the Inland Empire are typically held at Adelanto; San Diego and border arrests at Otay Mesa or Imperial; Central Valley and Bay Area arrests at Mesa Verde or Golden State Annex. Our San Diego office is minutes from Otay Mesa, and we file bond requests at every California facility.
What an immigration bond is
Money paid to ICE so a detained person can be released while the case continues. It guarantees attendance at every hearing and is refundable when the case ends and every condition was met.
Who sets the amount
ICE makes the first custody decision. If ICE denies bond or sets it too high, an immigration judge reviews it at a bond hearing (custody redetermination). Minimum $1,500; commonly $5,000 to $10,000.
Who is eligible
Not everyone. Certain criminal convictions trigger mandatory detention, some recent arrivals are limited to an ICE parole request, and the rules changed in 2025 and 2026 and are being litigated.
What the judge weighs
Flight risk and danger to the community. Family ties, a fixed address, work history, community support, court attendance, and rehabilitation evidence are the bond packet.
How the bond is paid
A sponsor with lawful status pays ICE through the online CeBONDS system or at an ICE office; a licensed bond company can post it for a fee. Release usually follows within a day.
After release
The case continues. Hearings must be attended and check-ins kept; a missed hearing can mean a removal order and a lost bond. We stay on as the defense team.
