In the complex landscape of immigration law, criminal convictions can have severe implications, especially for individuals facing removal proceedings. Understanding the intersection between criminal law and immigration law is crucial for those navigating these challenges. In this blog, we’ll explore the impact of criminal convictions on removal cases and how immigration lawyers play a pivotal role in advocating for their clients.
What Impact Do Criminal Convictions Have on Immigration Status?
Criminal convictions can significantly impact an individual’s immigration status, potentially leading to deportation or removal from the country. Certain criminal offenses, such as those classified as aggravated felonies or crimes involving moral turpitude, can trigger deportation proceedings. This may even be the case for lawful permanent residents.
The consequences of criminal convictions in removal cases can be severe and far-reaching. Individuals may face detention, deportation, and barriers to reentry into the United States. Furthermore, criminal convictions can also affect eligibility for immigration relief, such as asylum, waivers, or adjustment of status.
Who Can You Ask for Help in Navigating the Complex Legal System?
Given the high stakes involved, individuals facing removal proceedings because of criminal convictions often turn to immigration lawyers for guidance and representation. An experienced immigration attorney has a deep understanding of both criminal and immigration law. This gives them the tools needed to craft strategic defenses tailored to their clients’ unique circumstances.
5 Ways an Immigration Attorney Can Assist with Removal Cases Involving Criminal Convictions
Immigration lawyers play several crucial roles in removal cases involving criminal convictions. These include:
- Legal Analysis
Immigration attorneys carefully analyze the nature and consequences of their clients’ criminal convictions. This helps them assess the potential immigration implications and formulate an appropriate course of action.
- Defense Strategies
Based on their analysis, immigration lawyers develop comprehensive defense strategies to mitigate the impact of criminal convictions on their clients’ immigration status. This may involve seeking relief from removal, filing appeals, or pursuing alternative forms of relief.
- Advocacy and Representation
Immigration attorneys advocate on behalf of their clients during removal proceedings. This includes presenting evidence, arguing legal points, and challenging the government’s case.
- Negotiation and Settlement
In some cases, immigration lawyers may negotiate with immigration authorities to reach favorable settlement agreements. For example, this may include voluntary departure or cancellation of removal.
- Post-Conviction Relief
Immigration attorneys may also assist clients in pursuing post-conviction relief in criminal court, such as vacating or modifying criminal convictions that have immigration consequences.
Laird Law: Your Experienced Immigration Team in New York City and New Jersey
In removal cases involving criminal convictions, the stakes are high and the legal terrain is complex. Immigration lawyers play a critical role in guiding individuals through these challenges, offering expert legal advice, strategic advocacy, and unwavering support. By partnering with an experienced immigration attorney, individuals facing removal proceedings can successfully navigate the intersection of criminal and immigration law.
If you or a loved one is facing removal due to criminal convictions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us here at Laird Law. With offices in New York City and New Jersey, our experienced immigration team is well-equipped to handle your immigration case and answer any questions you may have. While the information provided above is meant to give you a general overview of how criminal convictions impact immigration status, we will look at your specific circumstances and determine the best course of action for YOU.
Don’t leave your immigration status to chance. Contact an expert immigration attorney at Laird Law today and let’s work together so you can face a brighter future with hope and confidence!
