In removal proceedings that have been administratively closed, who has jurisdiction over a filed I-485?

In removal proceedings that have been administratively closed, the Immigration Judge retains jurisdiction over a filed I-485, which is an application for adjustment of status to permanent residency. When a case is administratively closed, it means the court is temporarily suspending the proceedings, but it does not terminate the case entirely.

During this period, the Immigration Judge still holds the authority to manage the adjustments requests, allowing the applicant to continue with their I-485 application process. This means that if certain conditions or circumstances change, such as a new approval of a petition or changes in immigration law, the case can be reopened by the Immigration Judge for further consideration.

Other entities like USCIS, the Department of Justice, or a Federal Agency do not have the same direct jurisdiction over the I-485 in this context, as the court retains control until the proceedings are fully resolved or the case is ultimately terminated or dismissed. This legal framework ensures that the rights of individuals involved in immigration matters are upheld, as their cases remain within the judicial system's purview throughout the administrative closure.