Pentagon Deploys Military Lawyers as Temporary Immigration Judges: What This Means for Immigrants

On September 2, 2025, the Department of Defense announced that up to 600 military lawyers will be temporarily deployed to serve as immigration judges. The first group of 150 is expected to begin work soon, each serving up to 179 days. This decision comes in response to a record backlog of nearly 3.5 million cases in U.S. immigration courts.

For immigrants and their families, this announcement raises important questions: Will my case move faster? Will hearings be fair? What can I do to prepare? At New Horizons Legal, our goal is to help you understand what this change means and how you can protect your rights.

What Is Happening
The government is facing a crisis in the immigration court system. With a historic number of pending cases and over 100 immigration judges recently leaving their positions, the backlog has grown to the highest in U.S. history. To address this, the Pentagon has approved the temporary assignment of military legal personnel to serve as judges.

Why It Matters for Immigrants
This change could affect the pace and handling of immigration hearings across the country. More judges may mean faster scheduling, but there are also concerns about consistency and fairness. Immigration law is complex, and military attorneys may approach cases differently than civilian judges who have specialized training and experience in this area.

Concerns About Due Process
Advocates and civil rights groups are watching this development closely. While the government insists the plan is legal, questions remain about whether military involvement in immigration courts could compromise due process protections. Immigrants deserve fair hearings, and the use of military personnel in this role is unprecedented.

What You Can Do to Protect Yourself
If you have an upcoming hearing, it is more important than ever to be prepared. Gather all necessary documents, keep copies of immigration filings, and attend every court date. If you receive a Notice to Appear or a hearing notice, do not ignore it. Having an attorney by your side can help ensure that your rights are protected, regardless of who is sitting on the bench.

How New Horizons Legal Can Help
At New Horizons Legal, we understand how stressful changes in immigration policy can be. We work with individuals and families across the country on cases including asylum, adjustment of status, family petitions, humanitarian relief, and work authorization. We provide clear guidance, strong advocacy, and the personal attention you need to navigate uncertain times.

Conclusion
The deployment of military lawyers as immigration judges is one of the most significant changes to the court system in recent years. While it may reduce the backlog, it also brings new challenges for immigrants seeking justice. If you have questions about your case or want to be sure you are prepared for what comes next, New Horizons Legal is here to help you every step of the way.