Criminal charges can impact a person’s immigration status. A traffic stop can lead to DUI, drug possession or theft charges when an immigrant is not aware of their legal rights. You should be aware of your legal rights if you are suddenly stopped by the police. Here...
Criminal Defense
When a good plea deal is bad for your immigration case
Sometimes, a plea deal seems like a good solution to a criminal case, especially if it keeps you out of jail, reduces a felony to a misdemeanor and lets you move on with your life. If you aren’t a U.S. citizen, however, a seemingly favorable deal could ultimately...
The fruit of the poisonous tree doctrine
When facing criminal charges, it is important to understand the various legal doctrines that can impact your case. One of these is known as the fruit of the poisonous tree. This doctrine often refers to police procedures, especially as they obtain evidence. When the...
Can police access your smart devices?
Smart devices have become part of our everyday lives. Phones, watches, voice assistants and connected vehicles all help us to manage our lives better. However, they also collect large amounts of personal data. While these technologies provide convenience, they also...
Can a DUI put an immigrant’s status at risk?
Criminal offenses can have a chilling effect on an immigrant’s opportunities in the United States. Charges can cost an immigrant with an employment visa their job, putting their lawful status at risk. Crimes committed in another country may turn up on a background...
The Third Party Doctrine gives access to digital evidence
Digital evidence is used in many court cases. Police who are investigating someone for a crime may want to look at their location data from their phone. They may want to read lists of text messages or social media messages. They may want to look at pictures or videos...
What is “crimmigration?”
If you have never heard of the term “crimmigration,” it’s a mashup of “criminal” and "migration.” Originally, the criminal courts dealt solely with those charges defendants face in California state courts, and immigration law focused solely on laws affecting...
Should you always let the police into your home?
The knock at your door is distinctive. It is the police. Your heart races as you wonder what they want. More importantly, you question whether you should let them in. This decision is not as straightforward as it might seem, and understanding your rights can help you...
How can a police officer legally search your home?
Just because someone is a member of the police department does not mean you are automatically obligated to let them into your home. They may want to conduct a search if they are investigating you for criminal activity, but there are only certain ways that they can...
How you can navigate a criminal defence case with care
Being accused of a crime is one of the most stressful experiences a person can face. The fear of fines, jail time, and the dent on your reputation can be overwhelming and even before a verdict, the process itself can stress you and your loved ones heavily. While every...
