Generally, the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) does not conduct courtroom proceedings. It conducts a “paper review” of the case and makes a decision. On the rare occasion that it agrees to hear oral arguments, you should attend, if you are representing yourself. If you have an attorney, you may attend but only your attorney will be allowed to address the Board.
You may attend oral arguments before the U.S. Court of Appeals. If you have an attorney, the attorney will address the court, while you observe. You will not be asked any questions. Self-represented persons act as their own attorney and must adhere to court procedures, make their arguments and answer questions.