Deportable Offenses_ Understanding the Different Types of Crimes That Can Lead to Deportation

Deportable Offenses: Understanding the Different Types of Crimes That Can Lead to Deportation

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Attorney Kimberlee Payton Jones is the founder of Payton Jones Law where she specializes in immigration litigation and injury litigation.

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Deportation is one of the most serious consequences of committing a crime as a non-citizen in the United States. Unfortunately, many immigrants are at risk of deportation, regardless of whether they have been living in the country for many years or have strong family and social ties. If you are facing deportation or are concerned about the possibility of being removed from the United States, it is crucial to have a solid understanding of the different types of deportable offenses. Keep reading to learn about the most common types of crimes that can lead to deportation, what to do if you are facing removal proceedings, and how an attorney can help you fight your case.

Deportable Offenses

Being convicted of a crime as a non-citizen can have devastating consequences, including deportation, denial of a green card, or ineligibility for U.S. citizenship. The Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) establishes the grounds for deportation and outlines the types of criminal offenses that can trigger removal proceedings. Some of the most common types of deportable offenses include:

  • Crimes of moral turpitude: Moral turpitude refers to conduct that is inherently or intrinsically immoral, fraudulent, or depraved. These are serious crimes that may involve dishonesty, fraud, deceit, or harm to another person, such as murder, theft, forgery, or fraud.
  • Aggravated felonies: An aggravated felony is a serious crime that carries a minimum sentence of one-year imprisonment. Examples include drug trafficking, murder, rape, and certain firearms offenses.
  • Drug crimes: Drug offenses of any kind, even minor ones, can lead to deportation or inadmissibility. This includes drug possession, distribution, trafficking, and manufacturing.
  • Domestic violence crimes: Domestic violence-related offenses can also lead to deportation, even if they are considered misdemeanors. This includes assault, battery, stalking, and violation of a restraining order.
  • Gun crimes: Illegal possession or use of firearms can lead to deportation or inadmissibility, even if you have a legal permit in your state.
  • Other crimes: Other types of crimes that can lead to deportation include theft, fraud, espionage, and other crimes against the government.
  • Working with an experienced immigration attorney can help you understand the specific implications of your criminal history and the best strategies for defending against removal proceedings. An attorney can also help you explore your options for legal relief, such as cancellation of removal, waivers of inadmissibility, or adjustment of status.

Deportation can uproot your life, separate you from your loved ones, and make it difficult or impossible to enter the United States in the future. If you are an immigrant facing charges or have a criminal history, it is crucial to seek legal guidance as soon as possible. A skilled immigration attorney can help you navigate the complex legal landscape of immigration and deportation, fight for your rights and interests, and work towards a positive outcome in your case. Contact an attorney today to learn more about your options.