Deportable Criminal Offenses
When an immigrant, including those who have green cards, find themselves charged with a crime, they face the very real threat of deportation. In legal speak, crimes of “moral turpitude” or “aggravated felonies” are all but certain to lead to deportation. However, having a lawyer on your side who is skilled in the areas of immigration and criminal law can help you build a strong defense against removal proceedings.
At the law firm of , our attorneys handle both immigration and criminal defense matters for people throughout Michigan. We are prepared to put our experience to work for you.
Types Of Crimes That Will Lead To Removal Proceedings
A criminal conviction does not necessarily mean that you will be at risk for deportation. In general, “petty offenses,” such as shoplifting or other crimes where the punishment cannot exceed one year in jail, will not trigger removal proceedings. Crimes of moral turpitude, loosely defined as those involving dishonesty, theft or violence, and aggravated felonies, such as drug trafficking, place an immigrant at much greater risk of deportation. Examples of these types of crimes include:
- Fraud
- Robbery
- Aggravated DWI/DUI
- Rape
- Possession of child pornography
- Weapons charges
If you are facing any serious criminal charge, it is important to seek legal help as soon as possible. If you are at risk of deportation, it may be possible to seek a waiver if you can show that you are not a threat to national security or if deportation would cause extreme hardship to a family member who is a legal U.S. citizen. Other defenses may be available as well. Our attorneys can help explore your options and determine the best way to proceed.
Are You An Immigrant Charged With A Crime? Contact Us.
If you or a loved one is an immigrant who is facing criminal charges, get the skilled legal help you need. To schedule an initial consultation, call our law office in Plymouth at . You may also contact us online. We provide representation to people throughout the Detroit metro area, Ann Arbor and across Michigan.