Navigating the legal system can be complicated, especially regarding immigration. For immigrants facing criminal charges or convictions, serious consequences can impact their ability to stay in the country. It's important to understand how criminal charges and convictions can affect your immigration status and what steps you can take to protect yourself.
The Impact of Criminal Charges on Immigration Status:
When an immigrant is charged with a crime, it can immediately affect their immigration status. Certain criminal charges, such as crimes involving moral turpitude or aggravated felonies, can result in deportation or removal proceedings. It's important to consult with an experienced immigration attorney who can help assess the potential impact of the charges on your immigration status and provide guidance on how to proceed.
Understanding Crimes Involving Moral Turpitude:
Crimes involving moral turpitude (CIMT) are offenses that are considered contrary to community standards of honesty, justice, or good morals. These crimes can range from fraud and theft to assault and domestic violence. If an immigrant is convicted of a CIMT, it may lead to deportation or inadmissibility for future visas or green cards. It's crucial to seek legal counsel if you are facing criminal charges involving moral turpitude to understand your options and potential consequences.
Aggravated Felonies and Immigration Consequences:
Certain crimes classified as aggravated felonies under immigration law carry severe consequences for immigrants. Even non-violent offenses like drug trafficking or certain theft crimes can be classified as aggravated felonies. If an immigrant is convicted of an aggravated felony, they may face mandatory detention, deportation, and permanent bars from reentering the country. It's essential to seek legal representation if you are charged with an aggravated felony to explore defense strategies and possible alternatives.
Protecting Your Rights During Criminal Proceedings:
If you are an immigrant facing criminal charges, protecting your rights throughout the legal process is crucial. This includes exercising your right to remain silent, retaining competent legal counsel, and understanding the potential immigration consequences of any plea deals or convictions. By working closely with both a criminal defense attorney and an immigration lawyer, you can develop a comprehensive strategy that takes into account both your criminal case and your immigration status.
Seeking Relief through Waivers or Post-Conviction Relief:
In some cases, immigrants facing deportation due to criminal convictions may be eligible for waivers or post-conviction relief that could help mitigate the negative consequences. Waivers such as cancellation of removal or waivers for certain crimes may provide opportunities for immigrants to avoid deportation or obtain lawful permanent residency despite their criminal history. It's essential to consult with an experienced attorney specializing in criminal defense and immigration law to explore potential avenues for relief.
Immigrant Services in Greenville & Spartanburg Counties
If you or someone you know is facing the immigration consequences of criminal charges or convictions, it's crucial to act swiftly and seek professional legal assistance. At Colón Law Firm in Greer, SC, we specialize in helping non-citizens understand their rights and options. Our dedicated team is committed to providing the guidance and representation needed to navigate the complexities of immigration law. Contact us today at (864) 697-2870 to learn how we can assist you in securing your future in the United States.
