Beginning Monday, June 15, 2026, counsel filing a new 2241 Habeas/ 463 Immigration petition will be given the option to consent to the jurisdiction of a magistrate judge. The following language will appear during case initiation:
Option to Consent to Magistrate Judge for resolution of Petitions for Writ of Habeas Corpus (Federal) filed under 28 § 2241 with a Nature of Suit of 463 Prisoner: Alien Detainee.
Pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 636(c) and Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 73, you may consent to having a magistrate judge preside over your case and enter final judgment in the matter. The Court encourages parties to consent to a magistrate judge as it promotes judicial efficiency, allows the case to proceed before a single judge, and avoids delay. Under General Order 26-09, the United States has consented to magistrate judge jurisdiction in matters brought under 28 U.S.C. § 2241.
Consent to a magistrate judge is voluntary. If you consent, your case may be randomly assigned to either a district judge or a magistrate judge.
Individuals proceeding pro se should click on the links below to access the appropriate forms.
Prisoner Form - Application to Proceed In Forma Pauperis by a Prisoner (Immigration Habeas Corpus)