PHOENIX — A federal judge heard arguments this morning over whether Arizona's new immigration law should take effect at the end of the month, marking the first major hearing in one of seven challenges to the strict law.

U.S. District Judge Susan Bolton also is considering Gov. Jan Brewer's request to dismiss the challenge filed by Phoenix police Officer David Salgado and the nonprofit group Chicanos Por La Causa.

Bolton began by quickly dismissing Brewer as an individual defendant to the lawsuit. She then began considering whether to dismiss the case.

Bolton said last week that she may not rule on the officer's request to block the law before it takes effect July 29.

Hearings on the six other lawsuits, including one filed by the federal government, are set for next week.

The large ceremonial courtroom at the main federal courthouse in Phoenix was packed with more than 100 spectators as the hearing began.

Protesters and supporters of the law gathered outside the courthouse amid heavy security.