Here's what almost no one explains: in the immigration system, an offense that looks minor can carry serious immigration consequences. A conviction that resolves in criminal court with a fine or probation can, at the same time, cause someone to lose their green card, become ineligible for citizenship, or be placed in removal proceedings.
Many people plead guilty on the advice of a criminal defense attorney who did their job well in criminal court — but who did not analyze the immigration effect of that plea. When that happens, the damage sometimes can't be undone.
That's why the immigration analysis has to happen before, not after.
What crimmigration means
It's the point where criminal law and immigration law intersect. Immigration law has its own categories — crimes involving moral turpitude, aggravated felonies, controlled substance offenses, crimes of domestic violence — and those categories do not line up with the state criminal code. A charge that is a misdemeanor in Georgia can be, for immigration purposes, a permanent bar.
Analyzing that correctly requires knowing both systems.
What we do
- We analyze the immigration consequences of a charge or conviction: how it affects your current status, your eligibility for residence or citizenship, and your risk of deportation.
- We work with your criminal defense attorney, providing the immigration analysis so decisions in the criminal case are made knowing the effect on your immigration case.
- We defend your immigration case when a record is involved: representation before the Immigration Court, applications for relief, and waivers where available.
- We review prior convictions to determine how they affect a filing you want to pursue now — a family petition, adjustment of status, or naturalization.
If you have an open criminal case, now is the time
If you or a family member has a pending charge and is not a U.S. citizen, call before your next court date at (678) 985-0313. Once a guilty plea is entered, options narrow considerably.
Frequently asked questions
I already pleaded guilty. Can anything still be done?
It depends on the offense, how the conviction was entered, and your immigration situation. In some cases forms of relief or waivers exist; in others the consequence is difficult to reverse. The only way to know is to review your case documents.
I have a DUI. Can I be deported?
There is no single answer. The immigration effect depends on the type of charge, whether there was a conviction, any aggravating factors, and your current status. This is exactly the kind of case that needs analysis before assuming anything.
My criminal defense attorney says to take the deal. Should I?
That decision is yours, but it should be made knowing the immigration effect. A plea that is excellent in criminal terms can be devastating in immigration terms — and sometimes an alternative exists that resolves the criminal case without that damage.
Does an arrest without a conviction affect me?
It can affect certain immigration filings even without a conviction. It's worth reviewing before submitting any application.
Can I naturalize if I have a record?
It depends on the offense and when it occurred. Some convictions prevent establishing the good moral character naturalization requires, either temporarily or permanently. We review your history before filing, so you're not exposed to unnecessary risk.
How much does it cost?
Fees depend on the complexity of the case. Call us at (678) 985-0313 and we'll explain the options available for your situation.
Other practice areas
Facing an immigration case? Let's talk
Every case is personal. Schedule a consultation and get clear guidance on your options — with a team that fights for your family.