How a Criminal Immigration Lawyer Could Help You If You’re Being Charged with a Crime
In February 2024, the US Justice Department’s data show that the government reported 2,599 new immigration convictions, which is a 15.4% increase compared to the previous month. 530 defendants in immigration cases were convicted in the US Magistrate Courts, which handle less serious misdemeanor cases, including the so-called “petty offenses.”
A criminal immigration lawyer says that any crime of moral turpitude, an act or behavior that is considered to be a serious violation of community standards, can result in serious consequences. Such crimes include aggravated felonies, domestic violence, drug crimes, offenses against children, firearm offenses, and prostitution and sex trafficking offenses.
Let’s learn more about how a criminal immigration lawyer’s expertise can guide you when you are allegedly accused of an immigration crime.
Understanding Your Legal Rights
Be aware of your rights throughout the legal process when facing criminal immigration charges. One fundamental right is the presumption of innocence until proven guilty, which means that the burden of proof lies with the prosecution to demonstrate your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
As one of your rights, you can hire a criminal immigration lawyer to represent you and defend your case effectively.
Another basic right is the right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself. It’s important to exercise this right and avoid making any statements to law enforcement without the presence of your attorney.
Crafting a Solid Defense Strategy
Having a clear understanding of your legal rights will serve as the foundation of a good defense plan. A skilled criminal immigration lawyer will develop a strategy that tailors to your specific situation. The attorney will utilize the details of your case, analyze the evidence against you, and seek out potential loopholes in the argument of the prosecution.
According to a deportation attorney, you need to provide a compelling case if you want to win your deportation case. To do this, demonstrate to the court how your deportation can create hardship on yourself and on your family and that you have strong ties to the United States. You can achieve this by providing evidence that you have created a life in the US, and a proof of your innocence and good moral character.
It is important to keep an organized and detailed documentation of immigration-related materials which will serve to strengthen the case. The lawyer will use these as evidence to strongly argue in your favor.
Managing Challenging Immigration Laws
Someone without a legal background might get confused with the complexity of immigration laws. Employing an immigration lawyer will help clear up this confusion. The lawyer will brief you on things about immigration law and criminal convictions and its effect on your immigration status.
They can assess the specific details of your case, such as the severity of the crime, your immigration history, and any potential defenses that could minimize the impact of the case on your immigration status.
Minimizing Immigration Consequences
How can a criminal immigration lawyer assist in minimizing the immigration consequences of your criminal charges?
Your lawyer may negotiate with prosecutors to reach a plea agreement that avoids triggering deportation or other immigration penalties. He can help you make wise decisions regarding your case by showing the different potential legal outcomes of your case.
Another thing that your lawyer can do is to seek out alternative dispositions, such as diversion programs, that may lessen the severity of the charges.
Providing Ongoing Legal Support
Always keep an open communication with your criminal immigration lawyer. This guarantees continuous guidance and representation throughout the legal process.
Having legal support can give you peace of mind and lessen your worries about your case.
Final Thoughts
You need not worry too much if you are facing criminal charges as an immigrant since the services of criminal immigration lawyers are always there for you to use. Their legal expertise will help you feel confident in facing your legal challenges. Rest assured that they will tirelessly work to protect your rights throughout the process.