For permanent residents and undocumented immigrants, being charged with a crime can have devastating consequences. What many don’t realize is that a criminal conviction doesn’t just mean jail time or fines—it can also mean deportation. Certain offenses, including domestic violence, drug-related crimes, and fraud, can lead to removal from the United States, putting your future and the lives of your family at risk. But you don’t have to face this challenge alone. Dmitry Law Firm specializes in crimes and deportation law services, helping clients navigate the legal system and fight to stay in the U.S.
Understanding the Link Between Crimes and Deportation
If you’re a non-citizen living in the U.S., your immigration status can be jeopardized by criminal charges. For permanent residents (green card holders), this is often a shocking discovery—many think that holding a green card offers permanent protection. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Certain criminal offenses can trigger removal proceedings, and in some situations, even result in immediate deportation.
Undocumented immigrants face even more challenges, as they can be placed under an immigration hold (also known as an ICE hold), preventing them from posting bail if they’re arrested. If you’re under this hold, your case becomes significantly more complicated.
Common crimes that lead to deportation include:
- Domestic violence (including spousal or child abuse)
- Sexual abuse of a minor
- Drug possession, use, or trafficking
- Major fraud (welfare, insurance, bank, Medicare, etc.)
- Theft and robbery
- Gang-related crimes
Once a criminal charge is on your record, the U.S. government can initiate removal proceedings against you, regardless of your status as a permanent resident or undocumented immigrant.
How Dmitry Law Firm Can Help
At Dmitry Law Firm, we understand the life-altering impact that deportation can have on you and your family. Our team of skilled immigration attorneys is dedicated to protecting your rights, ensuring you have the best possible defense when facing deportation due to criminal charges. Here’s how we can help:
1. Legal Representation in Deportation Proceedings
Whether you’ve already been charged with a crime or are currently facing deportation, our attorneys will represent you throughout the entire process. We’ll work to challenge the grounds for deportation, aiming to keep you in the U.S.
2. Criminal Defense Strategies for Immigrants
If you’re facing criminal charges that could lead to deportation, our team can build a strong defense tailored to your specific situation. We work to reduce or dismiss charges, ensuring the best outcome for your immigration status. Often, the key to preventing deportation is handling the criminal case in a way that protects your right to remain in the U.S.
3. Navigating Immigration Holds
An immigration hold can complicate matters if you’re already incarcerated. These holds prevent you from being released on bail, even if you’ve met the requirements for it. Our legal team is experienced in handling immigration holds and working to get clients released while their case is pending.
4. Appeals and Waivers
In some cases, even if you’ve been convicted of a deportable crime, there may be options to remain in the U.S. We can help you explore appeals, waivers, and other legal avenues that might allow you to stay in the country.
Common Crimes Leading to Deportation
Certain crimes are known as “aggravated felonies” or “crimes of moral turpitude”, both of which are particularly problematic for immigrants. If convicted of one of these offenses, deportation is often fast-tracked, and re-entering the U.S. can become nearly impossible. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common crimes that result in removal proceedings:
1. Domestic Violence
Domestic violence charges, including spousal abuse and child endangerment, are among the leading causes of deportation. Even if the incident was a misunderstanding or an isolated event, a conviction can have serious immigration consequences.
2. Drug Offenses
Drug crimes—whether it’s possession, trafficking, or distribution—are taken very seriously by immigration courts. Even a small amount of a controlled substance can trigger deportation for both permanent residents and undocumented immigrants.
3. Fraud
Financial crimes like welfare fraud, bank fraud, and credit card fraud can also lead to deportation. Fraud offenses are often considered aggravated felonies, which makes them particularly dangerous for immigrants.
4. Theft and Robbery
Crimes involving theft, burglary, or robbery are considered crimes of moral turpitude. A conviction for these types of offenses, especially if combined with a longer jail sentence, can put you on the fast track to removal.
5. Gang-Related Crimes
Involvement in gang activity or being convicted of gang-related offenses can lead to immediate deportation. The U.S. government is particularly strict when it comes to crimes involving organized groups or activities that threaten public safety.
The Importance of Early Legal Help
Facing deportation due to criminal charges can feel overwhelming, but the earlier you seek legal help, the better your chances of a favorable outcome. Here’s why acting fast is so important:
- Prevents Missteps in Your Criminal Case: The outcome of your criminal case will directly affect your immigration status. By working with an attorney experienced in both criminal defense and immigration law, you can avoid common mistakes that could lead to deportation.
- Protects Your Rights: The legal system can be complex and intimidating, especially if English isn’t your first language. Our team will guide you every step of the way, ensuring you understand your rights and options.
- Builds a Strong Defense: Time is of the essence when building a defense against deportation. The sooner we start gathering evidence and preparing your case, the stronger your defense will be.
FAQs About Crimes and Deportation Law Services
Q: Can a green card holder be deported for a criminal conviction?
A: Yes, green card holders can be deported for certain crimes, especially aggravated felonies or crimes of moral turpitude. Even though you’re a permanent resident, criminal charges can put your status at risk.
Q: What is an immigration hold, and how does it affect my case?
A: An immigration hold is a request by ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) to hold an individual in custody, preventing them from being released on bail. This can make it harder to defend your criminal case, but our team can help navigate these challenges.
Q: Is it possible to avoid deportation after a criminal conviction?
A: It depends on the specifics of the case. In some instances, deportation can be avoided through legal defenses, waivers, or appeals. It’s crucial to work with an experienced attorney to explore all available options.
Wrapping It Up
If you’re facing deportation due to a criminal charge, the stakes couldn’t be higher. You’re not just fighting for your freedom—you’re fighting to remain in the country where you’ve built your life. At Dmitry Law Firm, we understand the complexities of both criminal defense and immigration law, and we’re committed to protecting your right to stay in the U.S. Our team of experts will fight tirelessly on your behalf, providing top-tier crimes and deportation law services to give you the best possible chance at a favorable outcome.
Don’t face this alone. Contact Dmitry Law Firm today for a consultation, and let us help you secure your future.