Why You Should Consult a Crimmigration Attorney Before Bonding Out or Taking a Plea Deal

Finding yourself in criminal trouble can be a stressful experience, especially if you are a non-citizen. The intersection of criminal law and immigration law, known as crimmigration, adds another layer of complexity to your situation. If you are arrested, it is crucial to understand that bonding out or accepting a plea deal without consulting a crimmigration attorney could have severe repercussions on your immigration status.

Don’t Bond Out Without Consulting a Crimmigration Attorney

When you are arrested, the immediate instinct might be to bond out as quickly as possible. However, for non-citizens, this could lead to unexpected and dire consequences:

1. Risk of ICE Custody: Once you bond out, there is a risk that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) could detain you. ICE often picks up non-citizens from local jails, especially after a criminal arrest. By consulting a crimmigration attorney first, you can better understand the risk and potentially mitigate it.

2. Legal Strategy: A crimmigration attorney can help you formulate a legal strategy that considers both your criminal case and your immigration status. They can provide guidance on the best course of action to protect your rights and minimize the risk of deportation.

Avoid Taking a Plea Deal Without Legal Immigration Advice

Plea deals might seem like a quick way to resolve your criminal charges, but for non-citizens, they can have severe immigration consequences:

1. Deportation Risks: Certain plea deals can result in immediate deportation or make you ineligible for future immigration benefits. Crimes involving moral turpitude, aggravated felonies, and drug offenses are particularly problematic. A crimmigration attorney can evaluate the charges and advise you on the immigration implications of any plea deal.

2. Informed Decisions: Criminal defense attorneys are skilled in criminal law but may not fully understand the immigration consequences of a plea deal. By consulting a crimmigration attorney, you ensure that you are making informed decisions that consider your long-term immigration status.

A crimmigration attorney bridges the gap between criminal and immigration law, providing key legal advice that protects your interests in both arenas:

• Assessment of Charges: A crimmigration attorney can assess the criminal charges against you and explain the potential immigration consequences. This helps you understand the full scope of your situation.

• Legal Representation: They can work alongside your criminal defense attorney to negotiate plea deals that minimize negative immigration outcomes. They also represent you in removal proceedings if necessary.

• Relief Options: A crimmigration attorney can explore options for relief from removal, depending on your circumstances.
  

If you are a non-citizen facing criminal charges, it is crucial to consult with a crimmigration attorney before bonding out or accepting a plea deal. The decisions you make in your criminal case can have profound and lasting effects on your immigration status. At LaGrone Law, we are experienced in crimmigration and are committed to protecting your rights and guiding you through this difficult legal landscape.

Contact LaGrone Law for expert advice and representation to ensure that your criminal case does not jeopardize your future in the United States. Call our office at 678-250-5449 or fill in the 'Contact Us' form below.