In Episode 15 of Immigration in Focus, attorney Maria Aguila explains the Fifth Circuit ruling limiting bond hearings for many detained immigrants and why families still face immigrant visa delays despite a court order lifting the 75-country pause. She also discusses heightened public-charge screening, five major immigration changes under the Trump administration, and practical steps families can take to prepare.

n Episode 14 of Immigration in Focus, attorney Maria Aguila explains changes to public-charge screening at U.S. consulates and what USCIS letters about continual FBI biometrics monitoring mean for applicants. She also discusses reporting on religious leaders detained by ICE, skilled-worker shortages, and increased scrutiny of employment-based immigration. Learn practical steps to prepare for visa interviews, understand government notices, and protect your immigration case.

Can the government deport someone to a country that was never identified in their immigration proceedings? What should families do when a detained loved one no longer appears in ICE’s online locator?

Attorney Maria Aguila explains the September 18, 2026 First Circuit decision and recent Associated Press reporting in plain English.

In this episode:
• What third-country deportation means.
• Notice and the opportunity to raise fears of persecution or torture.
• Why the ruling does not automatically cancel removal orders.
• Why an unsuccessful locator search does not confirm deportation.
• Practical steps for gathering records and seeking help.

Florida Immigration Law Firm
Attorney Maria Aguila
Phone: 904-385-9377
Website: https://immigrationlawfla.com
Main office: Jacksonville, Florida
Satellite offices: Orlando and Tampa/St. Petersburg — by appointment.

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Educational information only—not individual legal advice. Court orders and government practices may change.

Reporting and court decision:
• Washington Post: https://www.washingtonpost.com/immigration/2026/09/18/appeals-court-says-trump-administrations-third-country-deportation-policy-is-unlawful/
• Associated Press: https://apnews.com/article/ice-detainee-locator-disappear-removal-orders-c3329a70bce424879bc5880b286c019c
• First Circuit opinion: https://www.ca1.uscourts.gov/sites/ca1/files/opnfiles/26-1212P-01A.pdf