J
By
John Quigley, Legal Content Director · Reviewed against current A.R.S. · Last reviewed 2026-06-11
Immigration is governed by federal law, but Arizona’s border location and enforcement environment make local experience valuable. Cases range from removal defense to family petitions, DACA, and naturalization.
What Arizona law says
Federal law (INA) — Immigration is primarily controlled by the federal Immigration and Nationality Act and adjudicated in federal immigration court, not state court.
A.R.S. § 13-2929 — An Arizona statute historically tied to immigration enforcement; immigration status itself is a federal matter.
Phoenix Immigration Court — The federal immigration court serving Arizona, where removal (deportation) cases are heard.
How immigration cases work in Maricopa County
Removal cases are heard in the Phoenix Immigration Court under federal jurisdiction. Family-based petitions, work visas, asylum, DACA renewals, and naturalization are processed through federal agencies (USCIS, EOIR), independent of Arizona’s state courts.
Frequently asked questions
Is immigration handled in Arizona state court?
No. It is federal — removal cases go to the Phoenix Immigration Court and petitions to federal agencies like USCIS.
Can I be detained by ICE in Arizona?
Yes. Arizona has active immigration enforcement; an attorney can advise on bond and removal-defense options.
What can an immigration attorney help with?
Removal defense, asylum, family and employment petitions, DACA, visas, and naturalization.
Looking for a immigration attorney near you?
Browse immigration attorneys serving the Phoenix metro.
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Disclaimer: AZAttorneyFinder is an independent attorney directory, not a law firm, and does not provide legal advice. This page is general legal information about Arizona law, reviewed against the Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.). It is not a substitute for advice from a licensed Arizona attorney about your specific situation. Statutes change — verify current law before relying on it.