⚖️ How Do Criminal Convictions Impact Immigration?
Certain criminal convictions can have serious consequences for non-citizens, including:
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Deportation (Removal)
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Inadmissibility to enter or re-enter the U.S.
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Denial of immigration benefits such as visas, green cards, or citizenship.
🚨 Types of Crimes That Matter
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Aggravated felonies: Broad category including serious crimes like murder, drug trafficking, or fraud with sentences over one year.
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Crimes involving moral turpitude (CIMT): Crimes that involve dishonesty or immoral conduct.
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Controlled substance offenses: Drug-related convictions can lead to inadmissibility.
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Other offenses: Domestic violence, firearms violations, and multiple minor offenses can also have immigration consequences.
🛡️ Possible Relief and Waivers
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Some immigrants may qualify for waivers to overcome inadmissibility.
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Certain convictions may not trigger deportation if eligibility for relief exists.
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Post-conviction relief or expungement may help in some cases.
📝 What Should You Do?
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Always consult an experienced immigration attorney before pleading guilty or accepting a plea deal.
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Review your criminal record and understand potential immigration risks.
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Seek legal advice on options to minimize immigration consequences.
📞 Borderless Lawyers provides expert legal guidance on criminal immigration issues, helping you protect your status and navigate complex interactions between criminal and immigration law.