A measure connected to removal
The prefecture must issue a written, reasoned detention order. It should identify the removal measure to be enforced and explain why a less coercive option is insufficient in the individual circumstances.
Detention may continue only for the time strictly necessary for departure. The administration must take useful steps; the existence of an order does not remove the need to show a concrete prospect and genuine diligence. Each new measure must also be placed in the history of successive detention orders so that its legal basis and earlier periods can be reviewed.
The first ninety-six hours
Under the law currently in force, the initial administrative placement may last up to ninety-six hours. To keep the person after that point, the prefecture must apply to the judicial judge before the period expires.
The exact time of service is therefore essential. The order, centre register, official reports and prefecture’s application allow the timetable to be checked.
Rights that can be exercised immediately
From arrival, the person must be able to understand the situation and exercise the rights provided by CESEDA, including requesting an interpreter and contacting a lawyer, doctor, consulate and a person of their choice.
Any language, medical, communication or material problem should be reported precisely and recorded where possible. The judge works from reports, registers, certificates and preserved requests.
What the judge reviews
The judge examines the extension application, procedural regularity, effective exercise of rights and the conditions for continued detention. Merely naming a defect is not enough; its concrete impact on rights should be explained.
Review also covers necessity and diligence. A stable address, surrendered passport and other guarantees may support house arrest as an alternative, but do not create an automatic entitlement.
Counsel’s role
Counsel reconstructs the timeline from the stop or police custody, reviews the file disclosed for the hearing, raises supported arguments and answers the prefecture’s case. She also assembles relevant personal evidence.
The periods are short and the law has changed recently. Send the detention order, removal measure, hearing notice and every timed document immediately.
Discuss your situation
You can send the firm the essential facts, relevant dates and any known deadline.
Frequently asked questions
Is immigration detention a criminal conviction?
No. It is an administrative measure intended to prepare removal and requires judicial control for an extension.
When does the judge intervene?
Under the current framework, the prefecture must apply for any continuation beyond the first ninety-six hours. Other challenges may proceed separately.
Does an address guarantee house arrest?
No. It is important evidence, but the judge considers all guarantees, identity documents and the person’s previous history.