Not a U.S. Citizen? A Criminal Charge Can Put Your Status at Risk

If you are not a United States citizen, a criminal charge carries a second set of risks that has nothing to do with jail time or fines. Green card holders, visa holders, and people without status can all face serious immigration consequences from a criminal case — sometimes from a charge that seems minor.

The Wrong Plea Can Lead to Deportation

Certain convictions can make a person deportable, bar them from returning to the United States, or block them from ever becoming a citizen. Drug offenses, crimes involving theft or fraud, domestic violence offenses, and many others can carry these consequences. A plea deal that sounds like a good outcome in criminal court can be a disaster in immigration court.

"Probation Before Judgment" May Still Count

Many people are surprised to learn that a disposition Maryland does not treat as a conviction may still be treated as one under federal immigration law. The details of how a case ends — what you plead to, what you admit, and what the record says — can matter enormously.

Your Lawyer Has to Consider Immigration

The U.S. Supreme Court held in Padilla v. Kentucky that defense attorneys must advise non-citizen clients about the deportation risks of a guilty plea. The best time to protect your immigration status is before you resolve your criminal case, not after.

If You Are Already in Removal Proceedings

If you or a family member has been detained by immigration authorities or received a Notice to Appear, there may still be options, including bond, asylum, cancellation of removal, or other relief. These cases move quickly, and deadlines matter.

Two Cases, One Strategy

Adam Grott handles both criminal defense and immigration matters, so your criminal case and your immigration status can be handled together, with one strategy, from the start. If you are not a citizen and have been charged with a crime, or you are facing removal, contact Grott Law for a free consultation.