While most people are unfamiliar with the term, crimmigration law is an important area that combines immigration and criminal law. When you or your loved one is a non-U.S. citizen facing criminal charges, you could be at risk of deportation, even if you have a green card.
Working with a Fort Worth crimmigration lawyer familiar with local criminal and federal immigration laws is critical to protecting your freedom and your ability to stay in this country. A knowledgeable criminal defense attorney could answer all your questions and guide you through both criminal and immigration matters.
In the past, only immigrants who committed and were convicted of the most severe crimes faced deportation. The federal government could force them to leave the country when a jury convicted someone of felonies or crimes that showed they had poor moral character, including:
Immigrants facing charges on lesser offenses would not have faced the threat of immediate removal from this country. Instead, they would have been subject to the same criminal procedures as United States citizens. Their penalties would have been prison time, fines, probation, or restitution.
In recent years, the standard for deporting someone has changed. Non-immigrants today can face deportation for committing considerably less serious offenses. In addition to facing criminal penalties upon conviction, undocumented immigrants could be at risk of facing removal from this country.
An attorney who is well versed in both criminal and immigration law could help an accused offender fight the criminal charges and possible deportation simultaneously. An attorney in Fort Worth with crimmigration experience could mount a solid defense strategy that protects an undocumented immigrant’s freedom as well as their right to remain in this country.
People who are not U.S. citizens can face immigration consequences when facing criminal charges. Even when someone has a green card and is a legal U.S. resident, they could still be subject to deportation when arrested for certain crimes. The federal government could revoke their green card and deport them to their country of origin. A conviction on a lesser offense, such as a DUI misdemeanor, could damage an individual’s ability to obtain a green card or become a naturalized citizen. A misdemeanor conviction could delay the process, and a felony conviction for an undocumented immigrant could result in their deportation.
Law enforcement officials might try to get an undocumented immigrant to accept a plea bargain to their criminal charge. While some people are tempted to quickly plead guilty to a criminal charge to avoid the hassle of a long-drawn out trial, pleading guilty is not usually the best idea because of the effect it could have on an individual’s immigration status. Consulting with a Fort Worth crimmigration lawyer before agreeing to a plea deal could lead to a better outcome.
When facing criminal charges as an undocumented immigrant, you need help. You need to make sure you work with a legal professional who understands what you are facing and could protect all your rights. A seasoned crimmigration attorney knows how to mount vigorous defenses to both criminal and immigration proceedings, potentially allowing you or your loved one to remain in the country.
Contact a knowledgeable Fort Worth crimmigration lawyer today.