Criminal Defense
Immigration Consequences of Criminal Convictions
Why Immigration Consequences Matter
If you are not a U.S. citizen, a criminal conviction can result in deportation, denial of naturalization, or being found inadmissible for future entry. Consequences depend on your immigration status, the offense, and the sentence. It is critical to address immigration implications before pleading guilty.
Deportable Offenses
Aggravated felonies (including drug trafficking, theft with 1+ year sentence, violence, fraud over $10,000) make noncitizens deportable with very limited relief. Crimes involving moral turpitude, drug convictions (other than simple possession of 30g or less of marijuana), domestic violence, and firearms offenses also trigger deportability.
Inadmissibility
Certain convictions make you inadmissible—unable to enter or re-enter the U.S., or to adjust status. This affects green card holders who travel and applicants for visas or naturalization.
Defense Strategies
An attorney may seek: reduction to a non-deportable offense, avoidance of CIMT, sentence of less than one year to avoid aggravated felony treatment, or immigration-safe alternatives (e.g., diversion, deferred adjudication). The USCIS website has information, but criminal defense strategy requires an experienced lawyer.
Steven A. Alexander represents Spanish-speaking clients and is familiar with the intersection of criminal and immigration law. Contact our office for a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a criminal conviction lead to deportation?
Yes. Many convictions—including certain drug offenses, crimes involving moral turpitude (CIMT), aggravated felonies, domestic violence, and firearms offenses—can make a noncitizen deportable. Even misdemeanors can have severe immigration consequences.
What is a crime of moral turpitude?
A crime of moral turpitude (CIMT) involves conduct that is inherently base, vile, or depraved. The definition is complex and varies. Theft, fraud, and many violent offenses are often CIMTs. A single CIMT conviction can trigger inadmissibility; two or more can trigger deportability.
Should I hire a criminal lawyer or immigration lawyer?
For criminal charges, you need a criminal defense attorney who understands immigration consequences. Plea bargains that seem minor (e.g., "time served" or "no jail") can still lead to deportation. An attorney familiar with both areas can negotiate outcomes that minimize immigration harm.
Need Legal Assistance?
Contact the Law Offices of Steven A. Alexander for a free consultation. Offices in Santa Ana and Fresno. Bilingual (English/Spanish).
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