Immigration detention in Jena, Louisiana, can change a family’s life overnight. Every year, thousands of individuals are held at the LaSalle ICE Processing Center, one of the largest immigration detention facilities in the United States. Detainees often find themselves far from home, uncertain about their rights, and facing complex deportation proceedings that move fast.
At Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez, we represent individuals detained in Jena and their families across Louisiana and nearby Natchez, Mississippi. Our attorneys know how detention cases move through Louisiana’s immigration system and act quickly to protect our clients’ rights, secure their release when possible, and fight against removal. Whether you are trying to locate a loved one or preparing for a bond hearing, our firm is ready to help.
Understanding Immigration Detention in Jena
Immigration detention is part of a federal process that begins when Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) takes an individual into custody. Detention can occur after an arrest, during a routine traffic stop, or even following a denied asylum claim. From there, many immigrants across the South are transferred to the LaSalle ICE Processing Center in Jena while awaiting hearings or deportation.
People are detained for many reasons, including overstayed visas, pending deportation orders, or criminal convictions. Some cases qualify for bond hearings, while others involve mandatory detention that requires different legal strategies.
Detention cases move fast, often before families can react or find legal help. That’s why immediate representation matters. Our attorneys help clients understand their detention status, coordinate communication with ICE officials, and prepare for release or court proceedings.
The LaSalle ICE Processing Center
Located in Jena, Louisiana, the LaSalle ICE Processing Center is one of the largest immigration detention facilities in the United States. It houses men and women detained for immigration-related reasons, many of whom have been transferred from other states.
Because the facility is privately operated and located in a remote area, detainees often struggle to access family support or experienced attorneys. Hearings for LaSalle detainees are frequently conducted by video teleconference (VTC), with judges located hundreds of miles away.
Our firm works to overcome these barriers by maintaining a consistent presence in Louisiana’s detention network. We regularly represent clients at LaSalle and provide direct support for families. Our attorneys can:
- Locate detainees using ICE’s online database.
- Communicate directly with detention staff and ICE officers.
- File bond requests or motions to reopen cases.
- Coordinate family communication and document transfers.
The LaSalle facility presents challenges, but with skilled legal representation, families and detainees can navigate the process more effectively and pursue every available form of relief.
How an Attorney Can Help with ICE Detention in Jena
Detention cases require swift, informed legal action. The first days after someone is detained are critical, and early intervention can make the difference between release and prolonged custody.
At Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez, we take immediate steps to protect clients’ rights and prepare the strongest possible defense. Our attorneys assist with every stage of the process, including bond hearings, challenges to unlawful detention, and removal proceedings.
Bond Hearings and Release from Detention
Many detainees at LaSalle are eligible to request release on bond. During a bond hearing, an immigration judge evaluates whether the individual poses a flight risk or danger to the community. Our attorneys prepare and present evidence of community ties, family relationships, and positive records to support bond approval.
Once bond is granted, we help families post bond and ensure a smooth release. We then continue representing clients throughout their immigration proceedings to help them remain in compliance and work toward permanent relief.
Challenging Unlawful or Prolonged Detention
Some individuals are detained longer than the law allows. Our attorneys fight back by filing motions to challenge unlawful or prolonged detention and requesting custody reviews when necessary. We also advocate for proper medical care and humane treatment.
If ICE fails to release eligible detainees, we can petition federal courts for review and intervention. Every person in custody deserves fair treatment and timely legal process and our firm works to make sure that happens.
Representation in Immigration Court
Once a case is assigned to an immigration judge, our attorneys handle every step of the defense. We represent clients in:
Our goal is to protect our clients from deportation whenever possible. Whether pursuing asylum, adjustment of status, or cancellation of removal, we ensure that every client’s case receives careful, strategic representation.
Legal Support for Families of Detainees
When someone is detained in Jena, their family is often left scared, confused, and unsure where to turn for help. Many relatives live hundreds of miles away, often in places like Natchez, Mississippi, and have difficulty reaching facility staff or getting updates about their loved one’s case.
At Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez, we provide full legal and logistical support to families with detained loved ones. Our attorneys act as the direct point of contact between families, ICE officials, and the immigration court system.
We help families:
- Locate detained loved ones and confirm custody status.
- Communicate with detention facility staff and ICE officers.
- Prepare financial and personal documentation for bond hearings.
- Stay informed throughout every step of the legal process.
We understand that detention affects more than just the individual in custody; it disrupts entire families. Our bilingual staff communicates in both English and Spanish to ensure every client and family member understands their rights, options, and next steps.
Why Choose Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez for Jena ICE Detention Defense
Immigration detention cases require fast, knowledgeable, and compassionate representation. Families choose Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez because we bring decades of combined experience and a deep understanding of Louisiana’s immigration detention system.
Our clients benefit from:
- Extensive experience with the LaSalle ICE Processing Center: Our attorneys represent detainees held in Jena and are familiar with its procedures, judges, and facility operations.
- Full-service immigration representation: We handle detention defense, deportation cases, appeals, and related immigration issues such as green cards, asylum, and criminal defense for non-citizens.
- Strong communication and transparency: We provide regular updates to clients and families, ensuring everyone stays informed.
- Proven results in detention and bond hearings: Our attorneys have secured release for numerous clients detained in Jena and other Louisiana facilities.
- Bilingual support: We provide services in both English and Spanish, bridging the language gap for families throughout Louisiana and neighboring states.
When a loved one is detained, time is everything. We act immediately to evaluate options, request bond hearings, and advocate for release or relief from deportation.
Frequently Asked Questions About ICE Detention in Jena
Can my loved one get out on bond if they’re detained in Jena?
In many cases, yes. If a detainee is not subject to mandatory detention, our attorneys can request a bond hearing and present evidence showing the individual is not a flight risk or danger to the community.
How long will it take to get a bond hearing?
Bond hearings are typically scheduled within a few weeks of detention, but the timeline depends on court availability. Our attorneys file requests immediately to minimize delays.
What happens if the bond is denied?
If a judge denies bond, we can request a custody redetermination or file an appeal with the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA). We also continue pursuing alternative forms of relief, such as asylum or adjustment of status.
Can detainees apply for asylum or a green card while in custody?
Yes. Even while detained, individuals may apply for asylum, withholding of removal, or adjustment of status if eligible. Our attorneys prepare and file these applications directly with the immigration court or USCIS.
How can families stay informed about court dates and hearings?
We maintain direct communication with both clients and their families. Our firm tracks every court date, submits necessary filings on time, and provides regular updates so families are never left in the dark.
Contact Our Jena ICE Detention Defense Attorneys Today
If your loved one has been detained at the LaSalle ICE Processing Center in Jena, Louisiana, or transferred from another facility, don’t wait to get legal help. Immigration detention moves fast, and every day counts toward building a stronger case.
At Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez, we represent clients in Jena, Oakdale, New Orleans, and throughout Louisiana, as well as families in Natchez, Mississippi, who need help navigating the ICE detention system.
Call Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez today at (216) 284-7591 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced Jena ICE detention defense attorney. We are ready to protect your rights, pursue your release, and fight for your future in the United States.
