Navigating the intersection of criminal and immigration law can be incredibly complex and daunting, especially for non-citizens facing legal challenges. A criminal immigration attorney plays a crucial role in protecting the rights and future of non-citizens. At Tourzani & Long, LLC, we understand the unique challenges faced by immigrants involved in the criminal justice system. This post explores the vital role of a criminal immigration attorney in safeguarding the interests of non-citizens and ensuring they receive fair treatment under the law.
Understanding Criminal Immigration Law
Criminal immigration law deals with the implications of criminal charges and convictions on an individual’s immigration status. Non-citizens, including lawful permanent residents, visa holders, and undocumented immigrants, can face severe consequences for criminal activities, including deportation, detention, and denial of immigration benefits.
Consequences of Criminal Convictions. Criminal convictions can have far-reaching consequences for non-citizens, including:
- Deportation. Certain criminal convictions can trigger removal proceedings, leading to deportation from the United States.
- Detention. Non-citizens may be detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during or after their criminal proceedings.
- Inadmissibility. Convictions can render non-citizens inadmissible, preventing them from re-entering the U.S. or obtaining lawful status.
- Loss of immigration benefits. Criminal convictions can lead to the loss of benefits such as green cards, visas, and asylum status.
The Role of a Criminal Immigration Attorney
A criminal immigration attorney provides critical support and representation to non-citizens facing criminal charges or convictions. Here are some of the key roles they play:
Providing Legal Defense in Criminal Proceedings. A criminal immigration attorney represents non-citizens in criminal court, providing a robust defense against charges. They work to minimize the impact of criminal proceedings on the client’s immigration status by negotiating plea agreements and advocating for lesser charges that do not carry immigration consequences.
Navigating Immigration Consequences. Understanding the immigration consequences of criminal charges is essential for non-citizens. A criminal immigration attorney can assess how specific charges and convictions will affect a client’s immigration status and advise on the best course of action.
Filing for Relief from Removal. For non-citizens facing deportation, a criminal immigration attorney can file for various forms of relief from removal, such as:
- Cancellation of removal. Available for certain lawful permanent residents and non-permanent residents who meet specific criteria, including continuous residence and good moral character.
- Asylum. For individuals who fear persecution in their home country based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
- Waivers of inadmissibility. For individuals who can demonstrate that their removal would cause extreme hardship to a qualifying U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident relative.
Advising on Immigration Detention Issues. Non-citizens detained by ICE face significant challenges, including limited access to legal resources and prolonged detention. A criminal immigration attorney can advocate for bond hearings to secure the release of detained individuals and ensure their rights are protected during detention.
Assisting with Post-Conviction Relief. For non-citizens with past criminal convictions, post-conviction relief may be an option to mitigate immigration consequences. This can include vacating convictions, reducing sentences, or obtaining pardons. A criminal immigration attorney can evaluate eligibility for post-conviction relief and pursue appropriate legal remedies.
Tips for Non-Citizens Facing Criminal Charges
Seek Legal Representation Early. If you are a non-citizen facing criminal charges, it is crucial to seek legal representation from an attorney with experience in both criminal and immigration law. Early intervention can significantly impact the outcome of your case and help protect your immigration status.
Understand Your Rights. Non-citizens have specific rights under U.S. law, including the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Understanding and exercising these rights can prevent self-incrimination and ensure fair treatment.
Be Honest with Your Attorney. Provide your attorney with complete and accurate information about your immigration status and criminal charges. Honesty is essential for your attorney to build an effective defense strategy and navigate potential immigration consequences.
Stay Informed About Your Case. Stay informed about the progress of your case and any potential changes in immigration law that could affect your situation. Regular communication with your attorney can help you make informed decisions about your legal options.
How Tourzani & Long, LLC Can Help
At Tourzani & Long, LLC, we offer comprehensive legal services to protect non-citizens facing criminal charges and navigate the complex intersection of criminal and immigration law. Here’s how we can assist you:
Initial Consultation and Case Assessment. We begin with a thorough consultation to understand your situation, assess the criminal charges, and evaluate the potential immigration consequences. This helps us develop a tailored legal strategy for your case.
Robust Legal Defense. Our attorneys provide robust legal defense in criminal court, working to minimize the impact of criminal charges on your immigration status. We negotiate plea agreements, advocate for lesser charges, and represent you in all criminal proceedings.
Navigating Immigration Proceedings. We represent you in immigration court, filing for relief from removal, bond hearings, and other immigration proceedings. Our goal is to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your case.
Post-Conviction Relief. If you have past criminal convictions, we can evaluate your eligibility for post-conviction relief and pursue appropriate legal remedies to mitigate immigration consequences.
Continuous Support and Communication. We offer continuous support throughout your legal journey, keeping you informed about the status of your case and any developments that may affect your situation. Our attorneys are committed to providing clear communication and personalized attention.
Protect Your Future with Tourzani & Long, LLC
Facing criminal charges as a non-citizen is a challenging experience, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Tourzani & Long, LLC, we are dedicated to protecting your rights and helping you achieve the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us today—visit our website or call (201) 987-0036 to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward securing your future in the United States.