How Do Criminal Charges Affect Immigration?
Criminal offenses can have immediate impacts on your visa status or even your green card status. Depending on the severity of the crime, if you are convicted or take a guilty plea, you could face a deportation and removal proceedings even if you have a green card. It is critical to seek the advice and counsel of an experienced immigration and criminal law attorney right away prior to taking a plea in any criminal case.
At Law Office of Troy J. Mattes, P.C., we help clients who face charges in criminal courts throughout Pennsylvania.
Contact us today if you or a loved one has been arrested or charged with a crime. DO NOT accept a guilty plea in any criminal case until you have consulted with an experienced immigration attorney. Our attorneys ensure that your rights and interests are protected, and we can guide you through the U.S. criminal justice system at affordable rates and flexible payment plans.
Skillful Criminal Defense Representation From Experienced Immigration Attorneys
The immigration consequences of criminal pleas must always be considered and discussed with an experienced immigration attorney before proceeding in any way. You have the right to remain silent, and we strongly suggest that you do until you have legal representation working for your best interests in BOTH the criminal and immigration contexts.
Our attorneys are dedicated to fighting for the fair treatment of our clients along with the aggressive protection of their rights. We can also help people who may have already been convicted. In some cases, we can help you find post-conviction relief and safeguard your visa or green card status.
We help people facing a variety of immigration concerns and criminal charges, including:
- Theft and burglary
- Assault and battery
- Domestic violence
- DUI
- Weapons violations
- Crimes involving moral turpitude (CIMT) such as arson, bribery, or perjury
- Violent crimes
- Sex crimes
- Fraud
- Drug crimes
- Traffic violations
Our services are available to people facing summary, misdemeanor or felony charges, including federal crimes. Obtaining experienced and knowledgeable immigration counsel BEFORE taking a plea for any type of crime is vital to one’s immigration status.
Misdemeanor Charges Can Become Aggravated Felony Charges
Even misdemeanor charges against immigrants can become aggravated felony charges under the current immigration laws and result in permanent removal from the country. Don’t let this happen to you!
Before taking a plea bargain, consult with an experienced immigration attorney. A simple consultation could mean the difference between being allowed to remain in the United States or permanent deportation.
Certain types of convictions will have varying effects on your immigration status. In particular, the following types of crimes may get you deported:
- Drug crimes
- Theft
- Fraud crimes
- Domestic violence
- Prostitution
- Kidnapping
- Weapons violations
- Rape
- Manslaughter
- Murder
We can fight to defend your immigration status, and we can work aggressively against the other severe consequences of criminal convictions. A full understanding of your case, thorough case preparation, research and investigation, and skilled litigation representation can preserve your good standing in the U.S.
Contact Our York County Green Card Status Lawyers
Whether you or a loved one has been arrested, detained, or charged in any criminal court, we can help you pursue the proper legal avenues to protect your immigration status and build a case in your defense if you contact us today. We will help you pursue your best possible option strategically and tactfully. Call 800-574-5563.