Protecting Your Immigration Status After a Criminal Charge

Criminal Immigration Issues: Protect Your Rights And Your Future

For immigrants, a criminal charge is more than just a legal issue—it can trigger detention, deportation, denial of green cards, or loss of immigration benefits. Even a minor offense can have serious consequences for non-citizens.

At Reana Garcia Law Group, we help individuals in New Jersey manage the complex intersection of criminal and immigration law. Whether you’re facing a new arrest, past conviction, or immigration consequences from criminal charges, we work to protect both your legal rights and your immigration status.

We represent clients in coordination with criminal defense counsel or directly for immigration-related consequences of criminal activity.

What Is Criminal Immigration Law?

Criminal immigration law refers to the legal consequences that criminal charges or convictions have on a non-citizen’s immigration status.

Common scenarios include:

• ICE holds after an arrest
• Denial of green cards or naturalization due to criminal history
• Deportation based on past convictions
• Travel or reentry bans
• Aggravated felony or crime involving moral turpitude (CIMT) issues

Even charges that are dismissed or expunged may still affect immigration cases.

Crimes That May Affect Immigration Status

Immigration law does not treat all offenses the same. The following types of crimes often trigger immigration enforcement:

• Drug offenses (including possession of marijuana or paraphernalia)
• Domestic violence and assault
  
• Theft and shoplifting
  
• Fraud or false documents
  
• DUI/DWI (especially with aggravating factors)
  
• Sex-related offenses
  
• Firearm violations
  
• Crimes of moral turpitude (CIMTs)
  
• Aggravated felonies (as defined under INA § 101(a)(43))

We provide a thorough legal analysis to determine how a criminal record may affect green card eligibility, naturalization, visa renewals, and removability.

How We Help With Criminal Immigration Cases

• Crimmigration Consultation & Risk Assessment
  We evaluate criminal charges or convictions to identify potential immigration consequences.
• Post-Conviction Relief Guidance
  If a conviction is affecting your immigration status, we work with your criminal defense counsel or recommend post-conviction strategies that may offer relief.
• Deportation Defense
  We defend clients in immigration court where removal is based on criminal charges or convictions.
• Green Card & Naturalization Defense
  We help lawful permanent residents and applicants respond to Notices of Intent to Deny (NOIDs) or revoke based on alleged criminal grounds.
• Waiver & Pardons Support
  In some cases, waivers of inadmissibility (I-601, I-212) or pardons may be options—we help evaluate and pursue these paths.

Who Needs A Criminal Immigration Attorney?

You may need help immediately if:

• You are a non-citizen facing any criminal charge
  
• You have been arrested and placed on an ICE hold
  
• You are a green card holder with a prior conviction and want to apply for citizenship
• You have received a Notice to Appear (NTA) citing criminal grounds
• You are in custody or facing deportation due to a criminal record
  
• You want to travel or reenter the U.S. after a past offense

Even legal residents can be deported if certain convictions are found to be removable offenses. Don’t wait until it’s too late.

Why Choose Reana Garcia Law Group?

• Focused Criminal Immigration Knowledge
  We bridge the gap between criminal defense and immigration law, offering clarity on how each affects the other.
• Strategic Collaboration
  We work closely with criminal defense attorneys to minimize immigration fallout or pursue vacatur options when needed.
• Compassionate, Realistic Guidance
  Criminal immigration cases are emotionally difficult—we support you with honesty, clarity, and dedication.
• Fluent in English & Spanish
  We ensure clear, respectful communication at every stage of your case.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I be deported for a misdemeanor?
Yes. Some misdemeanors—especially those involving violence, theft, or moral turpitude—can lead to removal or denial of immigration benefits.

If my criminal case was dismissed, can it still affect my immigration status?
Possibly. Immigration authorities may still review arrest records, and expungements do not always protect you from immigration consequences.

Can I apply for naturalization if I have a past conviction?
It depends on the type of conviction, how long ago it occurred, and whether it affects your good moral character. We help assess eligibility and risks.

Related Services

• Removal Defense for Criminal Grounds
• Waivers of Inadmissibility (I-601, I-212)
• FOIA Immigration Records & Criminal Record Review
• Citizenship Denial Appeals
• Motions to Reopen Based on New Criminal Evidence
• Post-Conviction Relief Strategy Consults

Don’T Face Criminal Immigration Risks Alone

A criminal issue doesn’t have to mean the end of your immigration journey—but it does require fast, strategic legal action. Let Reana Garcia Law Group help you protect your rights and your future.

📞 Call (201) 983-4012(201) 983-4012 now for a confidential consultation
📍22 Chestnut St, Rutherford, NJ 07070
We’ll help you understand the risks—and fight for your path forward.