How A Criminal Conviction Can Impact Your Immigration Status
Getting arrested is scary enough as a U.S. citizen. Many unknown factors leave people wondering how criminal charges could affect their futures. As a non-U.S. citizen, however, getting arrested can be life-altering.
Criminal convictions can have dire, long-term consequences for legal immigrants in the U.S. If you are an immigrant convicted of a crime, you could lose your legal immigration status and face deportation.
When accused of a crime, it’s essential to seek the counsel of an attorney who understands immigration law and criminal law and is familiar with the Brazoria County legal system. I am Phil Morin, and as an attorney with experience in criminal law and immigration law, I can help you protect yourself.
Helping You Weigh The Consequences
The nature of your conviction will determine whether you face deportation. Under federal law, specific categories of criminal offenses may be grounds for deportation if you are convicted.
Some crimes that have related immigration consequences are:
- Firearm offenses
- Domestic violence
- Crimes against children
- Controlled substance crimes
- Aggravated felonies
A big mistake that people often make is not consulting with an experienced attorney prior to accepting a plea bargain. Plea bargains often include no jail time if you plead guilty. However, this option is a poor bargain if the guilty plea causes deportation.
Deciding what to do following a conviction can be a complicated balancing act between the immigration consequences and jail sentences. With many years of serving as a prosecutor, I have the right tools to help you weigh your options with the goal of minimal impact on your immigration status.
Don’t Take Chances With Your Freedom
Instead of going back and forth between an immigration lawyer and a criminal lawyer, choose one with valuable experience in both. Contact Phil Morin Law Firm PLLC at 281-975-5924 for a free consultation to discuss your options.