Immigration Consequences of Criminal Convictions

The immigration system is complex, but it can be even more challenging when a criminal conviction is involved. At Ahlgren Law we understand the gravity of these situations and are here to help you understand how criminal convictions can impact your immigration status and the steps you can take to protect yourself.

How Criminal Convictions Impact Immigration Status

A criminal conviction can have impactful consequences for non-U.S. citizens, potentially affecting their ability to stay in the country, adjust their status, or even re-enter the United States. It is crucial to understand the types of crimes that can have these impacts and the legal options available to mitigate these consequences.

Crimes Involving Moral Turpitude (CIMT)

Crimes involving moral turpitude (CIMT) are offenses that violate the standards of the community’s sense of morality. These can include:

• Fraud
• Theft
• Assault with intent to cause serious harm
• Certain drug offenses

Convictions for CIMTs can render an individual inadmissible to the United States, meaning they may be denied entry or unable to adjust their status to become a lawful permanent resident.

Crimes That Can Result in Deportation

Certain crimes can make a non-citizen deportable, including:

• Aggravated felonies (e.g., murder, rape, or drug trafficking)
• Multiple convictions for CIMTs
• Domestic violence offenses
• Controlled substance violations

Deportation proceedings can be initiated against individuals convicted of these crimes, jeopardizing their ability to remain in the United States.

Options for Those Facing Deportation

If you or a loved one is facing deportation due to a criminal conviction, various legal avenues may be available:

Waivers of Inadmissibility

In some cases, individuals may qualify for a waiver of inadmissibility, allowing them to overcome barriers to entry or adjustment of status. These waivers are discretionary and require a thorough understanding of immigration law to present a compelling case.

Cancellation of Removal

For those already in deportation proceedings, cancellation of removal may be an option. This form of relief requires proving that removal would result in exceptional hardship to a qualifying U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident relative.

Post-Conviction Relief

It may be possible to challenge or vacate a criminal conviction through post-conviction relief. This involves revisiting the criminal case to address legal errors or new evidence that could affect the outcome.

How We Can Help

At Ahlgren Law we are committed to helping our clients tackle the immigration system, especially when criminal convictions are involved. Our experienced attorneys can assist with:

• Evaluating your case to identify potential immigration consequences
• Advising on the best legal strategies to mitigate these consequences
• Representing you in immigration court and criminal proceedings
• Seeking waivers of inadmissibility and cancellation of removal
• Pursuing post-conviction relief to vacate problematic convictions

Why Choose Us?

Our firm has been dedicated to bringing families together and securing their futures in the United States since 1973. We take pride in offering compassionate and effective representation. Our team has an in-depth understanding of immigration law, giving us the skills and experience necessary to handle complex cases involving both.

Contact Us Today

If you are facing immigration consequences due to a criminal conviction, don’t navigate this challenging time alone. Reach out to schedule a consultation. We are here to sit down with you, discuss your options, and craft a strategy to protect your immigration status.