Scope and purpose
DHS uses the Notice to Appear to state factual allegations and charges of removability. Proceedings before an immigration judge commence when the charging document is filed with the immigration court; receipt alone is not a final removal order.
Related rules and practical context
Review the charges, hearing notices and court records rather than assuming a missing hearing date means no case exists. INA §240 governs removal proceedings and INA §237 includes deportability grounds. Deadlines and available relief depend on the individual record.