Immigration Law

Consequences of Criminal Conviction on Immigration Status

If you are charged with a crime and are not a U.S. citizen, you need to speak with an immigration attorney right away. The way you handle your criminal case may lead to your deportation or may have adverse affects on your immigration status.

Most criminal defense attorneys are not equipped to advise a non-citizen about the immigration consequences of a plea deal. A criminal defense attorney will primarily be concerned with keeping you out of jail and minimizing the direct effects of a criminal conviction as if you were a U.S. citizen. A good criminal defense attorney will tell you to speak with an immigration lawyer.

Making matters worse is the fact that immigration courts have a very broad view as to what they deem a conviction, including dispositions which would not be a conviction under Missouri law.

Without an understanding of the consequences of a criminal conviction to your immigration status, you may receive a very good disposition of your case—except that you may be deported and not allowed to return as a result.

At Baker Legal Services, we understand the effects a criminal case may have your ability to stay in the country and will work towards the best possible outcome in your case. Contact us to see how we can help you.