Immigration courts in Chicago, Indianapolis and other cities have begun conducting what advocates call "mega master" hearings, in which dozens to as many as 185 immigrants—many without attorneys—appear before a single immigration judge at the same time. According to the National Immigrant Justice Center, some judges have held hearings involving more than 30 people simultaneously, with some dockets planned for up to 100 people in a single day. Members of the Illinois congressional delegation have sent a letter to the Justice Department demanding an end to the practice, calling it an effort to "weaponize the immigration courts to facilitate mass removals." The ACLU of Illinois says the hearings are often rescheduled on short notice, increasing the risk that immigrants miss court dates and are ordered removed in error, while attorneys note that shortened timelines and new procedural requirements have contributed to a surge in removal orders.