7 Tips for Undocumented Immigrants

1. - You Still Have Rights. Don’t Let People Scare You. - The first thing you need to know is that everyone is protected under the law in the United States. There is no need for anyone to be afraid to call for help if they are being abused. Your legal status doesn’t make you less available for protection from violent crimes. Sadly, a lot of undocumented immigrants feel threatened by the law and abusers will take advantage of this.

How Could a Crime Affect My Immigration Status?

I was arrested by the police, am I going to have trouble with immigration?

In general, any criminal charge may have a negative impact on your immigration status. Criminal convictions may cause the Immigration Service (USCIS) to deny an application, to start deportation proceedings, or to detain or imprison an individual. If you are not a U.S. citizen and you are facing criminal charges you should have your case reviewed by an immigration lawyer as well as a criminal attorney.

Weapons Rights and Restrictions

Carried. - A carried weapon is one that moves with you, or one you have in your possession. Having a knife hidden in a pocket, for example, constitutes carrying a weapon because whenever you move, the weapon moves with you. However, actually moving is not required. You can, for example, carry a weapon if you have it in your pocket while you are asleep.

When Should I Hire a Lawyer?

If you become aware that you are under investigation, the best time to hire a lawyer is before you are questioned by law enforcement officials prior to being arrested for or being charged with a crime. There are a number of services a lawyer can provide before an arrest is actually made or a charge is formally filed.

What Crimes Are Eligible for Deportation?

First-generation immigrants commit crimes at much lower rates than do U.S. citizens. But for those who do commit crimes, it’s hard to get a clear picture of whether they are serious or misdemeanors, violent or nonviolent.

Could I Get Arrested if I am Charged with a Misdemeanor?

1. - Prior Record Level I. - If this is your first criminal charge, you will be considered a level I for sentencing purposes. This means you do not have any prior convictions. As a level I, you cannot receive an Active Sentence unless you are charged with an Aggravated Class 1 Misdemeanor offense, which includes Assault on a Female, Violating a Domestic Violence Protective Order, Assault with a Deadly Weapon, or Sexual Battery.