Immigration

How Criminal Convictions and Immigration Status Collide

If you have a pending immigration status and are convicted of a criminal offense, it is important to understand that they are two separate legal issues than can have an effect on each other. For example, if you are convicted of a serious criminal offense it may impact the outcome of your immigration case even though different judges will provide rulings in separate courts. Criminal courts are run by the state of California and apply state laws. Immigration courts are federal courts that administer federal laws.

In most cases, once an adult enters a guilty plea in criminal court a conviction has occurred for immigration purposes, even if the plea was later withdrawn after completion of probation. So, you can see how important it is to consult with a knowledgeable DUI and Criminal Defense Attorney at Hoffman & Associates before addressing the criminal charges you face because they may have an impact on your immigration case.

Immigration Consequences of Criminal Convictions

The immigration consequences of criminal convictions can be harsh. You may face deportation or denial of naturalization for felony convictions. It is less likely you will have deportation problems from a misdemeanor conviction. Certain triggering events, such as crimes of moral turpitude that show lack of good character, can result in immigration problems. These types of triggering events may include:

  • Murder
  • Robbery
  • Rape
  • Drug possession or sales

Most, though not all, immigration consequences are as a result of a conviction. Some immigration penalties are based on mere conduct without a conviction. For example, someone who is trying to gain citizenship in the United States may be found inadmissible because evidence exists that the person engaged in prostitution or was involved with known drug traffickers. Even though that person was not convicted of a crime, their conduct is obviously not that of a person with good character.

Consult with a Knowledgeable California Criminal Defense Lawyer

It is important to consult with a skilled DUI and Criminal Defense Attorney who can work with your immigration attorney so that both lawyers can protect your rights in the respective courts. If you don’t have an immigration attorney, Hoffman & Associates can refer you to a skilled immigration attorney and then work in tandem to secure your immigration status.

Our skilled criminal defense lawyers have over 30 years of daily experience in courtrooms throughout California. We understand how complex the immigration and criminal judicial systems can be, and that’s why our extensive experience is so important when it comes to your case.

Our successful track record in helping clients who face criminal convictions and immigration issues speaks for itself. We offer a phone or office consultation to discuss the specific details of your case. You will learn what your rights are and also what options we may have for your defense. Contact us today to schedule a no obligation consultation with one of our experienced DUI and Criminal Defense Attorneys.

Client Reviews
★★★★★
I can't begin to thank Mr. Hoffman enough for his extensive efforts throughout the entire case. He went absolutely above and beyond throughout the entire process. From day one he was immediately actively pursuing ways to prevent my case from ever going to court and once that was no longer an option, actively began working on getting the case ultimately dismissed. His communication was consistent and reassuring, despite my frantic worries all the time... Micaiah Botts
★★★★★
My family and I simply owe our life and future to Ron Hoffman. If you are looking for a lawyer that goes above and beyond the call of duty you can't find a better lawyer than Ron. He took my case head on from the moment I called his office. I was involved in an accidental hit and run where I was unaware of the injury. Every step of the way, Ron guided me through an almost two year long investigation and court settlement process and was constantly by my side through out every crossroad... Bill Martin
★★★★★
Ron Hoffman and his staff were Fantastic when dealing with such a serious issue of DUI. When I first Called Ron I was very nervous and worried for my daughter and her freedom. She had a failure to appear on top of her DUI and I knew just how bad this could be. Ron was able to immediately put me at ease and gave me the confidence that there was hope and a light at the end of the tunnel. Ron was able to get the failure to appear dismissed and also no jail time for my daughter... Claude Brown
★★★★★
I have been working with Mr. Hoffman for over 11 years. I have seen first hand his genuine dedication to his clients, and how his experience, knowledge and passion have gotten clients fantastic results. He treats each of his clients as his only client, and takes the time to develop detailed strategies and defenses for each individual case. I have never hesitated to refer Mr. Hoffman to anyone who has asked me for a good Criminal Defense attorney. He is a fantastic attorney!... Neeta P.
★★★★★
I had a DUI issue recently. I have never had a problem with the law as serious as this one. I did panic a bit after and knew I had to get a lawyer to help my future. I researched the Web and read the reviews for awesome DUI Lawyers. Hiring a lawyer can be intimidating. Ron's 30 years experience and step by step guidance helped me with my case. Jonie was amazing with keeping me calm. Ron Hoffman is a great lawyer and I would refer any friends or family to him... Manuel Gomez
★★★★★
Ron was so accommodating and professional. With a Firm like his you wouldn't expect him to be as accessible, but he immediately returned phone calls, was easy to communicate with and was very sympathetic to my situation. He went above and beyond and was able to get a better result than I'd hoped or expected. I highly recommend Ron Hoffman and his firm. He made a difficult and anxiety fueled process bearable and made me feel safe. He is a lovely man. One does not wish to need a criminal attorney, but if you do need one, Ron's the guy to call... Teri A.
★★★★★
Ron and his team were the perfect pairing for what I needed taken care of. Every step of the way he was extremely helpful and informative (not his first rodeo). His work ethic and attitude were exemplary and it showed with the results of using his services. I would recommend anyone I know to give Ron a call if they need help in his realm of expertise. Many thanks Ron and associates!... Donald N.
★★★★★
I didn't hire a lawyer for my first DUI... What a mistake! Ronald goes above and beyond with his art and knowledge of custom strategy according to your case. lawyer of the year (every year)... Adam R.
★★★★★
I hate lawyers. They are hard to get a hold of, greedy and unreliable. Ron is the opposite of all these things. He deserves 6 stars, and I very much recommend him. He helped me through my case with nothing but kindness, understanding, and knowledge and eventually got it dropped. Thanks for everything Ron!... Avi Z.