Crimes That Can Lead to Deportation
When it comes to immigration law, trying to understand terms like aggravated felonies and crimes involving moral turpitude can feel overwhelming, even terrifying, as they carry the potential to upend lives and separate families. The intricacies of these crimes and how they relate to deportation necessitate a thorough understanding. This article aims to shed light on these critical concepts, providing valuable insights into the legal implications and possible remedies in the event of such predicaments.
Wolfe & Mote Law Group, LLC, a reputable law firm based in Columbus, Ohio, is committed to guiding individuals through these challenging situations. Attorneys Stephen Wolfe and Elizabeth Mote bring their extensive knowledge and experience in immigration law and criminal law to the table, helping clients understand the potential consequences of certain criminal convictions and how they can affect their immigration status. They help clients explore options such as filing for a waiver, a form of "legal forgiveness," and provide strong representation to those facing potential deportation. Their dedication to serving clients throughout Dublin, Westerville, Gahanna, and the rest of the state, is unwavering, ensuring that each client receives personalized attention and comprehensive legal counsel.
Aggravated Felonies & Moral Turpitude
Two terms often surface in immigration law that carry significant consequences: aggravated felonies and crimes involving moral turpitude (CIMT). Aggravated felonies are a distinct category of crimes defined by the Immigration and Nationality Act. They encompass a wide range of offenses, including violent crimes, theft, drug trafficking, and fraud, to name a few.
On the other hand, crimes involving moral turpitude are not explicitly defined in the law. Instead, they are interpreted by courts to mean conduct that is inherently base, vile, or depraved, contrary to social norms of morality.
To illustrate, an aggravated felony could be something as serious as murder, rape, or drug trafficking. Equally, it might be a non-violent offense like tax evasion or fraud. A crime involving moral turpitude, on the other hand, might include theft, perjury, or assault. It's important to note that while some crimes may seem minor or trivial, they can still fall under these categories and lead to severe immigration consequences.
If a non-citizen, whether a lawful permanent resident or undocumented immigrant, is convicted of an aggravated felony or a crime involving moral turpitude, deportation proceedings may commence. This is because such convictions create a ground for removal under U.S. immigration laws. In other words, these particular crimes can lead directly to deportation, making legal representation crucial for anyone facing these charges.
Filing a Waiver
A waiver, in the context of immigration law, is essentially a request for "legal forgiveness" from the U.S. government. If a person is deemed inadmissible to the U.S. or faces deportation due to a criminal conviction, they may have the option to file a waiver. This can be an intricate process, often requiring the reapplication for a green card or adjustment of status.
Filing a waiver is essentially asking for a second chance. It's a legal tool that allows an individual to present reasons why they should be allowed to remain in the U.S., despite their criminal history. This might include demonstrating that their deportation would cause extreme hardship to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident family member. However, it's important to note that obtaining a waiver is not guaranteed and depends on the specific circumstances of each case.
Strong & Reliable Representation
Facing potential deportation due to a criminal conviction is a daunting prospect. That's why it's crucial to have strong and reliable representation to navigate the complex immigration laws and fight for your rights. At Wolfe & Mote Law Group, LLC, attorneys Stephen Wolfe, and Elizabeth Mote provide comprehensive legal counsel to clients throughout Columbus, Ohio, Dublin, Westerville, Gahanna, and across the state. With a deep understanding of the intricacies of immigration law and a commitment to their clients' well-being, they work tirelessly to secure the best possible outcomes in every case.