Criminal Consequences to Immigration

CRIMES AND THEIR IMMIGRATION CONSEQUENCES

Criminal conduct, with or without a conviction, can result in serious immigration consequences, including deportation. Even permanent residents can face deportation for criminal conduct, but not U.S. Citizens. If you have been arrested and charged with committing a crime, you should seek immigration advice immediately, and before your criminal case begins. It is in your best interests if your criminal defense attorney and your immigration attorney work together on your case.

Things to bear in mind:

1. Even a relatively “minor” offense can lead to deportation
2. You don’t have to be convicted of committing a crime for you to be deported
3. An expungement has no benefit in immigration proceedings
4. Crimes can be aggravated felonies or crimes of moral turpitude and both can have serious immigration consequences
5. A “no contest” plea will result in a conviction as if you had pled “guilty”
6. Driving without a license or with a suspended license is a criminal act and not “just” a traffic offense
7. There is no statute of limitations on crimes for immigration purposes and even offense committed decades ago could have serious immigration consequences
8. Even if you do face deportation for a crime there may be a waiver available to you
9. There may be post-conviction relief available to you if you have already been convicted of a crime
10. The immigration laws and regulations regarding criminal conduct of non-U.S. Citizens is extremely complex

If you have been convicted or charged with a crime, it is essential that you speak to an immigration attorney immediately. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.