A Criminal Conviction Can Affect Your Immigration Status
In the United States, an immigrant may be subject to removal proceedings if it is determined that he or she violated federal immigration law. Though many deportations are the result of not having a green card or staying in the country on an expired visa, certain criminal convictions can lead to deportation as well.
Grounds For Removal Based On Criminal Charges
Only certain crimes fall under the grounds for deportability. Some of these crimes include:
- Drug or controlled substance offenses
- Aggravated felonies
- Weapons or firearms violations
- Domestic violence and child abuse
- Violating a protective order
- Failure to register as a sex offender
- Crimes concerning moral turpitude
It is important to know that deferred adjudications and guilty pleas are considered convictions under federal immigration law and may lead to removal proceedings if an immigrant does not fully understand the law. Therefore, it is critical that immigrants receive proper guidance form a lawyer since there is a clear difference between what is considered a conviction under state law and what is considered a conviction for immigration purposes.
Protecting Your Rights And Immigration Status
If you are an immigrant and have been charged with a criminal offense, remember that police may use what you say against you. It is best to assert your right to an attorney immediately before answering any questions. Obtaining an attorney with a background in criminal law and immigration processes is best, because they are more equipped to give you precise legal counsel and effectively handle the complexities of your case.
At Delgado Law Firm, PLLC, we have this exact legal background, making our lawyers valuable resources to immigrants in Mississippi and Tennessee who are facing criminal charges. We know the full consequences a criminal conviction can have on your immigration status, including the threat of removal proceedings and the possibility of a re-entry ban if a removal order is made.
We try to help our clients avoid these severe consequences by fully explaining the situation and helping them make smart decisions. We evaluate our clients’ cases on an individualized basis, meaning solutions are tailored to each of our clients’ best interests.
Contact Our Law Firm Today
If you have questions or would like to know more about how a criminal conviction can affect a person’s immigration status, we encourage you to contact us and schedule an initial consultation. To speak directly to one of our qualified attorneys, call our Southaven office at 662-253-7169. Se habla español.
