If you are facing a criminal conviction, then you have more to lose compared to someone who is an American citizen facing similar charges. A lawyer can arrange for reduced charges and plea deals for their clients, while helping prevent jail time. A guilty verdict can put an immigrant at risk for being deported, which is why you must consult with a legal team that understands the nuances of immigration law.
Not every criminal conviction may result in deportation, however, these are the types of crime that may threaten immigration status and conclude you inadmissible:
- Domestic violence
- Aggravated felony (felony theft, rape, murder)
- Gun/firearm offenses
- Crimes of moral turpitude (fraud, harmful behavior)
- Drug crimes
Being inadmissible in reference to immigration means that you cannot benefit from re-entry to the United States after leaving, adjustment of status, apply for permanent residents, or apply for citizenship. Not only can a conviction on a criminal level get someone deported, it may bar them permanently from becoming an American citizen or ever coming back to the country.
Even if you haven’t been faced with a criminal charge, there are ways that you may get deported even if you are lawfully present, such as:
- Violating the terms of your green card, visa, or other status
- Helped smuggle an alien into the United States
- Engaged in marriage fraud
- Had permanent conditional resident status, but it was terminated
- Inadmissible when first entering the country (or adjusting immigration status)
Those living in America that are suspected of coming here with improper documentation, found to be a threat, been charged with a crime, or violated an issued visa are vulnerable to being deported. Even a person who has a green card may be removed if it is uncovered that they presented false information.
For further insight into immigration legalities, contact an immigration lawyer from The Law Group of Iowa as soon as possible for guidance.
