On April 8, 2024, the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) announced it was opening a new immigration court. The court is in the Greater Boston area. Officially named the Lowell Immigration Court, it significantly expands the EOIR’s presence in Massachusetts. The court is located at 150 Apollo Drive, Suite 100, in Chelmsford. It will employ 21 immigration judges.

Reducing Backlogs and Improving Efficiency

The new court’s goal is to help manage immigration cases in the region. It also aims to improve the efficiency of the adjudication process. By adding a new location with many judges, the EOIR is addressing backlogs. This also helps provide more timely case resolutions for everyone.

Notifying Individuals and a Name Change

The EOIR will give official, advance notice to all people and their representatives whose cases are being reassigned. This is a crucial step. It ensures that everyone is properly informed of the change in venue. They can then prepare for their future hearings.

Like other immigration courts, the Lowell court falls under the Department of Justice. It is responsible for fairly and quickly administering the nation’s immigration laws.

This new court is part of a broader EOIR effort. The agency is opening new courts and hiring more judges in high-volume areas. These actions directly respond to the growing number of cases. In July 2024, the EOIR renamed the court to the Chelmsford Immigration Court. This new name reflects its physical location. The change was made to provide greater clarity for individuals appearing there.

Advice for Those Affected

If this change affects your case, you should verify your case information regularly. You can do so through the Automated Case Information System. You can also contact the court directly. It is also essential to keep an updated address with the court. This ensures you receive all official correspondence, including notices about case reassignment and hearing dates.