Most people accused of criminal acts might benefit from defending against those charges. Criminal records affect employment opportunities and reputations. They can also affect immigration rights.
Immigrants must pass background checks when seeking visas or green cards. They also need to avoid significant criminal convictions while living in the United States if they hope to maintain their lawful status in the country.
Certain types of crimes are highly likely to trigger immigration consequences. What offenses often have an impact on an immigrant’s status?
1. Violent crimes and felonies
Assaults, homicides and acts of sexual violence are all among the potential statutory bars for admission to or continued presence in the United States. Additionally, current federal standards classify serious felonies as offenses that can impact an immigrant’s status. The government can actually reference the initial charge even in cases where an immigrant secures a plea bargain, making a thorough defense important.
2. Crimes of moral turpitude
Even misdemeanor offenses can affect an immigrant’s status. If the crime offends moral sensibilities, it may constitute a crime of moral turpitude. A variety of offenses could constitute crimes of moral turpitude, depending on the circumstances and the discretion of a judge.
3. Crimes related to substance abuse
Habitual substance abuse and addiction can both make an individual ineligible for a visa, a green card or naturalized citizenship. Even misdemeanor drug offenses could affect an immigrant’s status and opportunities. Repeated drunk driving convictions could also lead to immigration consequences.
Working with an attorney familiar with crimmigration matters can make a major difference for visa holders and permanent residents accused of serious crimes. A successful criminal defense can work to protect an immigrant from an inability to renew their documents or future removal proceedings.