Crimmigration is the intersection of criminal law and immigration law. A criminal conviction can significantly impact your immigration status, making legal representation important for protecting your rights. The uncertainty of your future in the United States is stressful enough — no matter what your legal status. If you were recently found guilty of a criminal offense, contact a Louisiana crimmigration lawyer today for a free case evaluation.
Criminal Conviction and Immigration Status
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the federal agency that oversees immigrants seeking a new home in America. Two important factors of those seeking permanent residency in the United States are:
- The applicant does not pose a risk to the public or the nation’s interests.
- The applicant is of good moral character.
A criminal conviction typically violates these two conditions, resulting in a possible hearing and deportation. The seriousness of a criminal conviction is why hiring a Louisiana crimmigration lawyer is crucial for your chances of remaining in the United States.
A lawyer can review all documents related to your immigration status and your criminal conviction. They can use this information to help prepare for your deportation hearing and other related legal matters.
The size and scope of your crime may not make a difference in whether you face deportation or not. Large and small offenses can both result in deportation. The fact remains that defending yourself against deportation is risky. Placing your case in the hands of a lawyer can bring you peace of mind as you navigate the immigration process.
What is Moral Turpitude?
United States immigration law places much value upon moral turpitude — but just what is it? In legal terms, a crime of moral turpitude (CMT) is an act or behavior that gravely violates the accepted standard or sentiment of the community.
Crimes involving moral turpitude can involve:
- Theft or robbery
- Murder
- Rape
- Spousal abuse
- Child abuse
- Aggravated assault
- Firearm charges
These are just a few examples of crimes that can pose a threat to your immigration status. Those with a legal green card or residency may also face deportation for criminal convictions involving moral turpitude.
Determining the level of morality involved with a crime is sometimes a gray area. An attorney can review federal law, your charges or conviction, and your immigration status. They can then build a strong case for delaying or possibly preventing deportation.
Your immigration status — and your future — are too important to leave to chance by handling your case alone. If you face criminal charges, hiring a lawyer experienced with criminal and immigration law is a proactive way to fight for a life in the United States.
Do Not Wait for a Conviction Before Contacting a Crimmigration Attorney
You may face deportation before your criminal case ever makes it to trial. An agency review of your case may result in deportation before a conviction ever occurs. While this may not appear fair, it is a possibility.
No matter your immigration status, if you have criminal charges pending against you, seek legal help now. Time passes very quickly, and your hearing date may arrive before you have a chance to contact a crimmigration attorney.
Facing deportation is frightening as you may become separated from your family. If you are the sole provider, deportation may result in severe financial hardship for family members.
Deportation is also serious because it may prevent you from ever returning to the United States. These are other important reasons why you must take action without delay to protect your future.
Hiring a lawyer immediately can potentially prevent regret later. There is never a guarantee of success with your case; however, fighting to remain in the United States is possible with the help of an experienced attorney.
When You Face More Than Fines and Jail Time
Immigrants face more than fines and jail time when it comes to criminal convictions. The safety and opportunities they seek in the United States are at risk when they are found guilty of a crime.
You do not have to face this challenging time alone. Seeking legal representation is an important first step toward learning more about how they can help you with the legal process.
How a Louisiana Crimmigration Attorney Can Help You
At Stephenson, Chavarri, & Dawson, LLC, we represent clients in crimmigration cases. Immigration issues involve federal laws, thus making them complex and challenging. The sooner you contact our office for a free case evaluation, the sooner we can get to work for you.
The uncertainty of your immigration status and the outcome of your criminal charges can cause you much anxiety. Our team works hard to alleviate your stress by managing the intricate details of your case.
You can help us by providing us with as much information as possible. Important evidence that may help your case include:
- Your current legal status
- Information regarding your arrest and, if convicted, your sentence
Providing us with as much specific information as possible is necessary for helping us, to help you. No one criminal case, conviction, or even immigration status is exactly alike.
Stephenson, Chavarri, & Dawson, LLC, serve English, Spanish, and French-speaking clients. Our commitment to you providing you with care and understanding can help you feel more comfortable about the process.
Communication is key when it comes to client and lawyer relationships. We strive to keep you informed, and we ask that you are open and honest with our team. Together we will fight for the best possible outcome of your case.
To learn more about how we can help you, contact us online or by calling 504-523-6496 today. Get the help you need from our team of Louisiana crimmigration lawyers by reaching out as soon as possible. We proudly serve New Orleans and the surrounding region.
