US Judge Orders Trump Administration to Notify Migrants 21 Days Before Deportation

A federal court in Colorado has ordered the government to notify Venezuelan migrants held in the state 21 days before deportation, allowing them the chance to challenge their removal in court. Federal Judge Charlotte Swinney issued the ruling on April 22, 2025, maintaining a temporary ban on deportations from the state under the Alien Enemies Act of 1798. The judge emphasized that migrants must be informed in a language they understand about their right to legal counsel. During a hearing on Monday, April 21, Judge Swinney expressed concerns about the government’s proposed 24-hour notice, stating it does not meet the Supreme Court’s directive to provide migrants with an opportunity to contest deportations legally. President Trump countered by arguing that handling individual cases for hundreds of thousands of undocumented immigrants would be unfeasible. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), representing detained migrants, had requested a 30-day window for legal appeals—a period previously granted during World War II under the Alien Enemies Act. This law permits the president to deport or restrict individuals deemed threats to national security during wartime.