Immigration And Criminal Defense Lawyers

How taking a plea deal can impact your immigration status

On Behalf of | Jan 27, 2025 | Immigration Law |

You may be offered a plea deal to avoid a lengthy trial if you’re facing criminal charges. It can seem like an easy and quick solution, but you shouldn’t overlook the potential impact on your immigration status.

When you plead guilty to a crime, it counts as a conviction on your criminal record. This can trigger serious consequences, given the strict immigration laws. Even a seemingly minor conviction can lead to deportation, inadmissibility or difficulty securing visas in the future.

For instance, a conviction for an aggravated felony, such as certain types of drug offenses, violent crimes or major fraud, can trigger automatic deportation regardless of how long you have lived in the U.S. Even if your crime isn’t considered an aggravated felony, certain charges can still make you ineligible for a green card, work visa or citizenship.

Understand your legal rights

A plea deal is voluntary, meaning you do not have to accept it. You always have a chance to negotiate the terms, reject the offer or take the case to trial. You may also have options that might have less impact on your immigration status, such as diversion programs or probation, depending on the circumstances of your case.

Make an informed decision

You do not want to rush into accepting a plea deal without careful consideration. Look beyond the immediate legal consequences of pleading guilty and consider the potential impact on your immigration status. 

Seeking proper legal guidance when facing criminal charges is in your best interests. It can help you weigh the potential risks and benefits of accepting a plea deal while providing invaluable insights into how different charges and convictions might affect your ability to remain in the U.S., obtain a visa or get citizenship.