Criminal Convictions and Impacts on Immigration Status in Denver & Seattle

Navigating the complexities of the immigration system in the United States can be particularly challenging for individuals who find themselves contending with judgments arising from criminal convictions. As Novo Legal possesses a wealth of experience in both criminal defense and immigration law, our legal team is well-positioned to assist clients in Denver and Seattle to confront these challenges head-on.

In this informative guide, we will delve into the concept of "crimes involving moral turpitude" and provide both definitions and examples of such crimes while exploring the potential consequences these convictions may have on an individual's immigration status. Furthermore, we will examine the repercussions of having an aggravated felony conviction, which can have serious implications on deportation, relief options, and inadmissibility.

For those who are facing removal due to criminal convictions, it's essential to be aware of the potential waivers and relief options available. We will cover the I-601A waiver and I-601 waiver, as well as additional relief options including asylum, withholding of removal, and cancellation of removal.

The importance of legal representation by experienced criminal and immigration attorneys cannot be overstated when protecting one's right to remain in the United States. We will highlight the crucial role that our legal team will play in defending against criminal charges that may impact our clients' immigration status and guiding them through the immigration relief process with confidence and reassurance.

Crimes Involving Moral Turpitude

To understand the effects of criminal convictions on immigration status, one must comprehend the concept of "crimes involving moral turpitude" (CIMT):

1. Defining Moral Turpitude: Though there is no precise definition of moral turpitude in U.S. immigration law, courts generally consider crimes involving fraud, larceny, or intent to harm individuals or property to fall under this category.
2. Examples of CIMT: Examples can include theft, assault, violent crimes, fraud, arson, sexual assault, and some drug offenses.
3. Consequences of CIMT-Related Criminal Convictions: A conviction for a CIMT can lead to serious immigration consequences, such as removal (deportation), inadmissibility when attempting to reenter the U.S., and ineligibility for certain types of immigration relief.

Aggravated Felony and Its Impact on Immigration Status

An aggravated felony conviction can have dire consequences for an individual's immigration status:

1. Understanding Aggravated Felonies: In the context of immigration law, aggravated felonies are a specific category of crimes resulting in severe immigration consequences. Aggravated felonies encompass offenses like murder, rape, drug trafficking, and certain white-collar crimes.
2. Implications of Aggravated Felony Convictions: An aggravated felony conviction can result in deportation and a permanent bar to reenter the U.S. Additionally, individuals convicted of such crimes are ineligible for many forms of immigration relief, like asylum and cancellation of removal.

Waivers and Relief Options for Immigrants Facing Removal

Being aware of potential waivers and relief options for removal due to criminal convictions is essential:

1. Immigration Waivers: The I-601A waiver, also known as the provisional unlawful presence waiver, can provide relief for certain individuals with close U.S. citizen or LPR family members who would face extreme hardship if separated. The I-601 waiver, or the waiver of inadmissibility, is available to those with certain criminal convictions, subject to demonstrating extreme hardship to a qualifying U.S. citizen or LPR relative.
2. Relief Options: Other relief options include asylum, for those who fear persecution in their home country based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group; withholding of removal, for individuals who can demonstrate a clear probability of persecution in their home country; and cancellation of removal, available to long-term LPRs and nonpermanent residents who can prove various qualifications, including good moral character, continuous physical presence in the U.S., and exceptional and extremely unusual hardship for qualifying relatives.

The Importance of Experienced Legal Representation

Experienced legal representation is essential for protecting one's right to remain in the U.S:

1. Defending Clients: Skilled criminal defense attorneys can advocate for clients facing criminal charges, potentially reducing or eliminating charges that may impact their immigration status.
2. Guiding Clients: Navigating the immigration relief process can be overwhelming. An experienced attorney can provide guidance on the process, assisting clients in meeting requirements and presenting the strongest case for relief possible.

Conclusion

The impact of a criminal conviction on an individual's immigration status in Denver and Seattle can be significant, with consequences ranging from deportation to inadmissibility. By enlisting experienced legal guidance in both criminal and immigration law, immigrants can defend their rights to remain in the United States, access available relief options, and better secure their futures.

If you or a loved one is facing potential immigration consequences due to a criminal conviction in Denver or Seattle, trust the experienced team at Novo Legal to provide the support, guidance, and representation necessary to protect your rights. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with an immigration attorney.