Moving to a new country is already difficult, but being an immigrant to the United States can be especially challenging. A run-in with the criminal justice system can have serious consequences.
If you are a legal permanent resident (green card holder), have temporary immigration status, or are undocumented and are charged with a crime, a Palm Bay crimmigration lawyer can help. The attorney at Jag Law, PLLC, could mount a defense against criminal charges and help prevent deportation and removal.
The term “crimmigration” refers to the intersection of criminal justice and immigration. Criminal arrests and convictions have an outsized effect on immigrants, as being detained or found guilty can lead to deportation and other negative effects for an immigrant defendant.
Some offenses are considered deportable, while others may lead to a reduction or elimination of benefits available to immigrants. In certain situations, a criminal conviction can be the basis for denying lawful entry into the U.S. or adjustment of status. Furthermore, a criminal record can impede the naturalization process and other attempts to remain in the country.
Deportable offenses include most aggravated felonies, as defined by the Immigration and Nationality Act, as well as crimes of “moral turpitude.” In Florida, a crime is considered moral turpitude if it involves deceit or dishonesty, such as fraud or misrepresentation, or if a criminal act is particularly egregious.
Unfortunately, the impact of criminal justice on immigrants can lead to profiling and the removal of immigrants. For example, permanent residents with a history of drug abuse or addiction can be removed, even if not convicted of a drug-related crime. It is important to note that if you intend to become a citizen and find yourself involved with the law, your application for naturalization may be denied if you are convicted of certain crimes. It is crucial to speak to our crimmigration attorney before accepting a plea.
Without legal help, you could find yourself suddenly in removal proceedings based on current or past experiences with law enforcement. If you are under suspicion of a crime during the immigration process, a knowledgeable attorney in Palm Bay could provide the guidance needed to protect your rights and discuss your legal options.
If you are being accused of a crime or are facing consequences because of an arrest or prior history, an attorney could provide reassuring defense. By staying up to date with the actions of law enforcement and the prosecution, a defense lawyer could safeguard your rights and work to prevent a conviction.
Beyond dealing with local or federal law enforcement, your attorney may need to negotiate with United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in order to keep your status, benefits, and presence in the United States intact.
Your lawyer should have knowledge of the various immigration rules, laws, and intricacies that could affect you and your family, as their status could be negatively affected as well. Our crimmigration attorney in Palm Bay could assist you with that knowledge of both criminal defense and immigration to best serve your needs.
Despite a backlog of cases, the criminal justice system and the immigration system can move quickly to remove you if you have been arrested or charged with a crime. USCIS may look to cancel your benefits or status if there is a criminal issue, even if it is from your past, so you should seek out a Palm Bay crimmigration lawyer quickly.
Having an attorney on your side can make a difference in keeping you in the United States and keeping your status intact, if applicable. Contact our firm as soon as possible if you or a loved one becomes subject to an investigation or prosecution.