At a glance (120 words): ICE transfers happen for space, security, medical, or flight logistics. A transfer can change the detention facility and the court handling the case, it does not erase attorney representation. Track moves with the ICE Online Detainee Locator using the A-Number or name, date of birth, and country of birth. Call the ICE ERO field office to confirm custody and whether the person is “in transit.” Ask the facility for legal call and visit procedures. Keep Form G-28 on file with ICE and EOIR, carry a copy inside the detainee’s property, and whitelist attorney phone numbers for unmonitored legal calls. If transfer harms access or separates the case from the lawyer, request a change of venue and expedited legal calls. Document every step.
Key points:
- Use ODLS and ERO calls to verify facility and “in transit” status.
- File and carry G-28s for ICE and EOIR, keep copies with the detainee.
- Set up legal calls, video visits, and legal mail correctly addressed.
- If transfer breaks access, request change of venue and interim accommodations.
- Log dates, times, staff names, and confirmations for the case record.
Why transfers happen
- Bed space, security levels, medical needs, or transport routing.
- Centralization of certain case types or proximity to flight hubs.
- Local jail contracts ending or population surges.
How to track a transfer in real time
- ICE Online Detainee Locator (ODLS): Search by A-Number or by name, date of birth, and country of birth. Check twice daily during moves.
- Call ICE ERO: Contact the local ERO field office to confirm current custody, planned facility, and whether the person is “in transit.” Ask for the receiving facility name once known.
- Facility confirmation: When ODLS updates, call the new facility for intake status, detainee number, and legal call scheduling.
- Paper trail: Save custody transfer numbers and any forms you receive, such as I-203 transfer notices when available.
Keep attorney access during and after transfer
- Representation continuity: File Form G-28 with ICE ERO and EOIR. Email or fax it to the new facility once identified. Place a paper copy in the detainee’s property.
- Legal calls and video: Request unmonitored attorney calls, register the office number, and schedule video visits if available. Ask for interim access while the person is on intake hold.
- Legal mail: Address as “Legal Mail, Attorney-Client Communication,” include A-Number and housing unit. Follow the facility’s legal mail rules.
- Records and meds: Send medical summaries, prescriptions, and court notices by fax or email per facility policy. Confirm receipt.
Venue, hearings, and bond after transfer
- EOIR venue: Transfers often shift the Immigration Court location. Check the EOIR portal or hotline after ODLS updates.
- Change of venue: If transfer harms access to counsel or witnesses, file a change of venue motion with a concise declaration.
- Bond: If eligible, request bond or redetermination in the court with venue. Prepare a sponsor package in advance.
Checklist for families and counsel
- Full name, A-Number, date and country of birth, prior facility.
- Two daily ODLS checks until the new facility appears.
- Calls to prior and new ERO offices, note names and times.
- G-28s on file and in property, attorney number whitelisted.
- Medical summary and medication list sent to receiving facility.
- Copies of hearing notices, bond orders, and receipts saved in a shared folder.
Common problems and fast fixes
- ODLS “not found” during transit: Re-check in a few hours, call ERO, and ask prior facility transport desk.
- No legal call access after arrival: Email the facility’s legal access inbox with G-28 attached, request a call window and confirmation.
- Hearing scheduled at the wrong court: File change of venue with proof of transfer and counsel location, then confirm by phone.
- Missing meds or records: Re-fax the packet, ask medical to confirm receipt, and escalate to ERO if delays continue.
Helpful links
- ICE Online Detainee Locator: locator.ice.gov
- ICE ERO field offices: ice.gov/ero
- Local strategy and representation: Monrreallaw.com – Immigration Services
This article provides general information, not legal advice. Policies differ by facility and ERO office.