Legal immigrants who have the right to be in the United States can be deported if they violate federal immigration laws. One of the most common reasons for deportation is being convicted of a criminal offense.
It doesn’t matter how long you and your family have lived in the country, how well-established your life is here or whether you have a child who is a U.S. citizen, a criminal offense can still result in deportation by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
A non-citizen who was previously admitted or paroled in the United States can be subject to deportation proceedings based on the following types of criminal offenses, according to the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA):
- Crimes of moral turpitude – Although it is an important concept in criminal immigration law, the legal definition of moral turpitude is not entirely clear. But, generally speaking, a crime of moral turpitude often involves crimes against a person (e.g. murder, kidnapping, robbery, etc.), sexual offenses (e.g. sexual assault, rape, prostitution, child pornography, etc.), crimes against property (e.g. theft, larceny, etc.), and crimes involving fraud (e.g. identity theft, credit card fraud, etc.).
- Aggravated felonies – A conviction for certain felonies in Arizona law can lead to you being deported from the United States. As opposed to crimes of moral turpitude, an aggravated felony is clearly defined in the INA. Aggravated felonies include, but are not limited to, homicide, rape, drug trafficking, and sexual abuse of a minor.
- Drug crimes – Under the INA, nearly all drug crimes in Arizona can result in being removed from the country. This includes both misdemeanors and felonies, whether it’s simple possession or drug manufacturing.
- Firearm crime – You can be deported if you are convicted of illegally possessing, using, carrying, purchasing, selling, or exchanging any fire arm.
- Domestic violence – Only a single conviction of a domestic violence crime can result in deportation. In the INA, a domestic violence offense doesn’t only mean abuse on a spouse or partner, but also child abuse or violating a restraining order.
If you or a loved one are facing deportation proceedings, our Phoenix immigration attorney at Kanu & Associates, P.C. is committed to protecting your rights and future. We understand the criminal and deportation proceedings are frightening and confusing, which is why our legal team can guide you through the intricacies of the legal system to help you get the best outcome possible.
For more information, contact us and schedule a confidential consultation today.