{"id":352771,"date":"2022-08-19T07:42:47","date_gmt":"2022-08-19T12:42:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/immigration\/deportation-removal\/felony-convictions-and-immigration-status.html"},"modified":"2025-10-07T11:41:12","modified_gmt":"2025-10-07T16:41:12","slug":"felony-convictions-and-immigration-status","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/deportation-removal\/felony-convictions-and-immigration-status.html","title":{"rendered":"How Does a Felony Affect Immigration Status?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 fl-sectionWithSidebar fl-container fl-flex fl-flex-wrap fl-gap30\">\n<div class=\"fl-page-articles fl-section-main fl-section-main-full-width\"><h1 class=\"fl-no-margin-top\">How Does a Felony Affect Immigration Status?<\/h1>\n\n<section class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline\">\n    <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-content\">\n                    By <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/lyle-therese-a-hilotin-lee-j-d\/\">Lyle Therese A. Hilotin-Lee, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by <a\n                href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/laura-temme-esq\/\">Laura Temme, Esq.<\/a>\n                | Last updated\n        <time>\n                            October 07, 2025\n                    <\/time>\n    <\/div>\n\n    \n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-legally-reviewed\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Legally Reviewed\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team.html\">FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/company-history\/editorial-policy.html\">our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n\n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-fast-checked\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Fact-Checked\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/contributing-authors.html\">contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/?fli=bylinelink\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<div class=\"fl-key-takeaways fl-mb30\" data-testid=\"fl-key-takeaways\">\n    <div class=\"fl-card-content\">\n        <div class=\"fl-card-body fl-card-bg-teal fl-flex fl-flex-column\">\n                            <h2 class=\"fl-card-title fl-h2 fl-no-margin\">Key Takeaways<\/h2>\n                        <p>A <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710292\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710292\">felony conviction<\/span> can severely impact <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710277\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710277\">immigration status<\/span> by triggering <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710265\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710265\">deportation<\/span> proceedings, mandatory detention, and permanent bars from re-entering the United States. <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710268\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710268\">Immigration law<\/span> classifies certain crimes as &#8220;<span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710266\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710266\">aggravated felonies<\/span>&#8221; or &#8220;<span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710286\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710286\">crimes involving moral turpitude<\/span>,&#8221; which carry harsh consequences regardless of how they&#8217;re classified under criminal law. These convictions can affect all <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710273\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710273\">non-citizens<\/span>, from <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710269\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710269\">green card holders<\/span> to undocumented immigrants, with consequences varying based on <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710277\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710277\">immigration status<\/span> and the specific crime committed.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710292\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710292\">Felony convictions<\/span> can create severe consequences for anyone, but especially <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710273\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710273\">noncitizens<\/span>. They could potentially lead to:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Mandatory detention<\/li>\n<li><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710265\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710265\">Deportation<\/span><\/li>\n<li>Permanent bar from reentering the United States<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Understanding these consequences is important in protecting your rights and <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710277\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710277\">immigration status<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>The intersection of criminal and <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710268\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710268\">immigration law<\/span> is complex. Even non-<span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710292\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710292\">felony convictions<\/span> can have severe consequences. Facing <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710308\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710308\">criminal charges<\/span> in the United States as a <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710273\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710273\">noncitizen<\/span> can negatively affect your <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710277\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710277\">immigration status<\/span>. <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710273\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710273\">Noncitizens<\/span> should always inform their <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/criminal-law\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">criminal defense attorney<\/a> of their <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710277\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710277\">immigration status<\/span>. Even <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/criminal\/criminal-procedure\/plea-bargain.html\">plea agreements<\/a> can have unintended <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710288\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710288\">immigration consequences<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>In this article, we\u2019ll explain how a felony charge generally impacts a <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710273\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710273\">noncitizen<\/span>, depending on their <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710277\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710277\">immigration status<\/span>. An <a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/immigration-naturalization-law\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710300\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710300\">immigration attorney<\/span><\/a> can explain how current laws apply to your specific case and how to minimize <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710288\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710288\">immigration consequences<\/span>. You can reach out for <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710297\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710297\">legal advice<\/span> regardless of your <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710277\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710277\">immigration status<\/span>. Even if you are a foreign national staying in the U.S. without legal status, it is safe for you to talk to an <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/immigration-naturalization-law\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710295\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710295\">immigration lawyer<\/span>.<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>Understanding <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710286\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710286\">Crimes Involving Moral Turpitude<\/span> and <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710266\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710266\">Aggravated Felony<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Not every <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710270\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710270\">criminal conviction<\/span> leads to removal from the United States. However, <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710286\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710286\">crimes involving <\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.justice.gov\/archives\/jm\/criminal-resource-manual-1934-appendix-d-grounds-judicial-deportation\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710286\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710286\">moral turpitude<\/span><\/a> and <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710266\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710266\">aggravated felonies<\/span> carry harsh consequences for <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710273\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710273\">non-citizens<\/span>. A <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710273\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710273\">non-citizen<\/span> who commits an <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710266\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710266\">aggravated felony<\/span> is often unable to apply for <a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/deportation-removal\/forms-of-relief-from-removal.html\">relief from <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710265\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710265\">deportation<\/span><\/a>. They can also be deemed \u201c<span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710281\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710281\">inadmissible<\/span>,\u201d meaning they can\u2019t re-enter the United States in the future.<\/p>\n<h2>What Is an <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710266\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710266\">Aggravated Felony<\/span>?<\/h2>\n<p>The immigration definition of <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710266\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710266\">aggravated felony<\/span> is unique to criminal law in the United States. A criminal <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710283\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710283\">misdemeanor<\/span> can be considered an <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710266\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710266\">aggravated felony<\/span> for immigration purposes.<\/p>\n<p>For immigration purposes, the term <a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ilrc.org\/sites\/default\/files\/resources\/aggravated_felonies_4_17_final.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710266\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710266\">aggravated felony<\/span><\/a> includes a wide range of <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710278\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710278\">criminal offenses<\/span>. Some are <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710283\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710283\">misdemeanors<\/span> under state or federal law, while others are felonies.<\/p>\n<p><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710268\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710268\">Immigration law<\/span> treats <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710266\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710266\">aggravated felony<\/span> as a distinct category that includes many acts Congress considers as removable offenses. Despite its name, the felony does not need to be aggravated under <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710314\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710314\">state law<\/span> to qualify under this term. In <a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/us\/title-8-aliens-and-nationality\/8-usc-sect-1101\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710268\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710268\">immigration law<\/span><\/a>, it only needs to be one of the acts that Congress listed.<\/p>\n<p>The term <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710266\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710266\">aggravated felony<\/span> was first used in 1988 through the Anti-Drug Abuse Act. At the time, the term only applied to murder and the trafficking of drugs, firearms, and other destructive devices.<\/p>\n<p>Congress has since then expanded the definition. It now includes at least 30 types of offenses. The <a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/us\/title-8-aliens-and-nationality\/8-usc-sect-1101\/#:~:text=(43)%20The%20term%20%E2%80%9Caggravated%20felony%E2%80%9D%20means%2D%2D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">U.S. Code<\/a> lists the following categories of criminal activities under the definition of <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710266\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710266\">aggravated felony<\/span>:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Murder, rape, or <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710309\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710309\">sexual abuse of a minor<\/span><\/li>\n<li>Illicit trafficking in <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710298\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710298\">controlled substances<\/span>, including <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710284\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710284\">drug trafficking<\/span> and other <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710311\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710311\">drug offenses<\/span><\/li>\n<li>Theft offenses with a <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710310\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710310\">term of imprisonment<\/span> of at least one year<\/li>\n<li>Crimes of violence with a <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710310\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710310\">term of imprisonment<\/span> of at least one year<\/li>\n<li><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710318\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710318\">Money laundering<\/span> or fraud offenses where the loss exceeds $10,000<\/li>\n<li>Court appearance failures for serious felony charges<\/li>\n<li>Additional federal and state criminal violations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>These consequences apply retroactively to all <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710270\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710270\">criminal convictions<\/span>, even if they occurred before the definition change in 1996. This means individuals could <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710304\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710304\">face <\/span><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710265\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710265\">deportation<\/span> and be barred from entering the U.S. for old offenses on their <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710301\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710301\">criminal record<\/span>.<\/p>\n<h2><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710272\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710272\">Crimes of Moral Turpitude<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710272\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710272\">Crimes of moral turpitude<\/span> are acts that cause serious harm to someone. It also refers to conduct with an improper purpose or reckless behavior. Compared to other categories, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/policy-manual\/volume-12-part-f-chapter-5#:~:text=%E2%80%9CCrime%20involving%20moral%20turpitude%E2%80%9D%20(,elements%20that%20involves%20moral%20turpitude.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710272\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710272\">crimes of moral turpitude<\/span><\/a> do not have a statutory definition. It is up to the court to make determinations on a case-by-case basis. The most common <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710286\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710286\">crimes involving moral turpitude<\/span> are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Crimes against a person, such as child abuse, <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710293\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710293\">domestic violence<\/span>, or statutory rape<\/li>\n<li>Crimes involving fraud, such as tax evasion or wire fraud<\/li>\n<li>Crimes against property with an element of deceit, such as counterfeiting or <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710318\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710318\">money laundering<\/span>.<\/li>\n<li>Other crimes that show malicious intent, like <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710315\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710315\">alien smuggling<\/span> or obstruction of justice<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Many offenses do not qualify as <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710286\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710286\">crimes involving moral turpitude<\/span>. For example, a simple <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/dui\/charges.html\">drunk driving (<span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710279\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710279\">DUI<\/span>)<\/a> does not qualify, even if it results in an injury to another. Negligence also generally does not qualify as a <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710286\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710286\">crime involving moral turpitude<\/span>.<\/p>\n<h2><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710288\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710288\">Immigration Consequences<\/span> for <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710292\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710292\">Felony Convictions<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>If you are a foreign national, committing an offense described above does not always <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/deportation-removal\/what-are-the-most-common-reasons-for-deportation.html\">lead to <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710265\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710265\">deportation<\/span><\/a>. <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710289\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710289\">U.S. Citizenship<\/span> and Immigration Services (<span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710307\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710307\">USCIS<\/span>) considers many factors, including <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710312\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710312\">criminal history<\/span>, when deciding whether to remove someone from the country. This means <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710307\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710307\">USCIS<\/span> has the choice to grant or deny relief.<\/p>\n<p>That being said, <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710266\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710266\">aggravated felonies<\/span> usually do lead to <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710265\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710265\">deportation<\/span>. An <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710266\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710266\">aggravated <\/span><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710292\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710292\">felony<\/span><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710292\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710292\"> conviction<\/span> not only makes a person <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710265\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710265\">deportable<\/span> but also makes them ineligible for nearly all forms of relief from <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710265\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710265\">deportation<\/span>, such as:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/deportation-removal\/cancellation-of-removal.html\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710305\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710305\">Cancellation of removal<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li>Asylum<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/deportation-removal\/voluntary-departure.html\">Voluntary departure<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The following is a summary of possible consequences for <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710273\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710273\">noncitizens<\/span> who commit <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710266\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710266\">aggravated felonies<\/span>, broken down by type of legal <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710277\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710277\">immigration status<\/span>.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710302\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710302\">Legal <\/span><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710264\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710264\">permanent resident<\/span> (<span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710299\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710299\">LPR<\/span>)<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/visas\/green-card.html\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710271\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710271\">Lawful <\/span><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710264\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710264\">permanent residents<\/span><\/a> are subject to <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710265\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710265\">deportation<\/span>. <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710313\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710313\">Immigration authorities<\/span> may detain them during <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710280\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710280\">removal proceedings<\/span>. Even if they aren\u2019t removed, the U.S. government can place a permanent bar on becoming a naturalized <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710267\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710267\">U.S. citizen<\/span>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Refugee (without <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710299\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710299\">LPR<\/span> status)<\/strong>: <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710313\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710313\">Immigration authorities<\/span> can <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710265\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710265\">deport<\/span> a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/asylum-refugee.html\">refugee<\/a> after a <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710270\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710270\">criminal conviction<\/span>, even if they would be in grave danger in their home country. Some felonies, subject to judicial discretion, may result in the inability to obtain <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710299\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710299\">LPR<\/span> status.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Asylee (without <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710299\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710299\">LPR<\/span> status)<\/strong>: <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710313\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710313\">Immigration authorities<\/span> can <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710265\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710265\">deport<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/asylum-refugee\/asylum-and-refugees-overview.html\">people seeking asylum<\/a> only after conviction of a &#8220;particularly <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710294\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710294\">serious crime<\/span>,&#8221; which includes any <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710266\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710266\">aggravated felony<\/span>. Some felonies, subject to judicial discretion, may result in the inability to obtain <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710299\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710299\">LPR<\/span> status.<\/li>\n<li><strong><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710273\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710273\">Non-Citizen<\/span> with temporary lawful status<\/strong>: This includes individuals with non-immigrant visas and those with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/humanitarian\/temporary-protected-status\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">temporary protected status<\/a>. Violators may lose status and be removed for any <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710292\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710292\">felony conviction<\/span> or two or more <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710283\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710283\">misdemeanor<\/span> convictions.<\/li>\n<li><strong><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710273\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710273\">Non-Citizen<\/span> without legal status<\/strong>: Since <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/immigration-overview.html\">undocumented immigrants<\/a> are not authorized to be in the U.S., any <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710278\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710278\">criminal offense<\/span> can result in <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710265\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710265\">deportation<\/span>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/deportation-removal\/can-you-return-to-the-united-states-after-deportation.html\">Returning to the U.S. without permission<\/a> after removal is a federal crime. It can result in a\u00a0<span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710310\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710310\">term of imprisonment<\/span>\u00a0of up to 20 years and a permanent bar from future immigration to the United States.<\/p>\n<h2>Can a <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710264\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710264\">Permanent Resident<\/span> Be Deported for a Felony?<\/h2>\n<p>A green card does not provide absolute protection from <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710265\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710265\">deportation<\/span>. If a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/visas\/who-may-obtain-a-green-card.html\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710269\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710269\">green card holder<\/span><\/a> commits certain crimes after being admitted to the U.S., they can be placed in <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710280\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710280\">removal proceedings<\/span> and lose their status.<\/p>\n<p>The risk depends on the type of crime. The most severe offense is an <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710266\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710266\">aggravated felony<\/span>, but <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710286\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710286\">crimes involving moral turpitude<\/span> (CIMTs) also pose a significant threat.<\/p>\n<p>A <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710269\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710269\">green card holder<\/span> can be deported for the following <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710270\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710270\">criminal convictions<\/span>:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710266\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710266\">Aggravated felony<\/span><\/strong>: A conviction for a crime defined as an <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710266\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710266\">aggravated felony<\/span> under <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710268\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710268\">immigration law<\/span> at any time after admission makes a <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710269\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710269\">green card holder<\/span> <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710265\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710265\">deportable<\/span>. This is the most direct path to removal.<\/li>\n<li><strong>A <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710286\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710286\">Crime Involving Moral Turpitude<\/span> (CIMT)<\/strong>: The rules for CIMTs depend on timing and the number of offenses.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>A <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710269\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710269\">green card holder<\/span> is <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710265\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710265\">deportable<\/span> if they are convicted of crimes in either of the following situations:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>One Strike<\/strong>: A single CIMT committed <strong>within five years<\/strong> of being admitted to the U.S., if the crime could carry a prison sentence of one year or more.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Two Strikes<\/strong>: Two or more CIMTs at <strong>any time<\/strong> after admission, as long as they did not arise from a single criminal incident.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If either you or someone you love finds themselves facing either of the above, contact an <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/immigration-naturalization-law\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710300\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710300\">immigration attorney<\/span><\/a> sooner rather than later.<\/p>\n<h2>Impact of the Laken Riley Act on Immigration Enforcement<\/h2>\n<p>For many years, <a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/us\/title-8-aliens-and-nationality\/8-usc-sect-1226\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">federal law<\/a> has required ICE to detain <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710273\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710273\">non-citizens<\/span> if they were convicted of certain types of crimes. The person would then be held in custody while their removal (<span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710265\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710265\">deportation<\/span>) case was pending. They were not eligible for a bond hearing. This is called \u201cmandatory detention.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.congress.gov\/bill\/119th-congress\/senate-bill\/5\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Laken Riley Act<\/a>, which became law on January 29, 2025, created a new trigger for mandatory detention policies. Under this law, <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710313\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710313\">immigration authorities<\/span> must hold undocumented immigrants and other <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710273\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710273\">non-citizens<\/span> in detention following an arrest for certain crimes if they meet specific criteria related to both their immigration history and the alleged offense.<\/p>\n<p>The Act primarily affects undocumented individuals who entered without authorization. This includes some who later received protection under programs like the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/deportation-removal\/what-is-deferred-action-for-childhood-arrivals.html\">Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)<\/a> program or Temporary Protected Status (TPS).<\/p>\n<p>The following are some of the important provisions of the Laken Riley Act:<\/p>\n<h3>Changes to Mandatory Detention Triggers<\/h3>\n<p>Certain <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710270\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710270\">criminal convictions<\/span> remain subject to previous\u00a0mandatory detention categories, but the Laken Riley Act adds a new trigger. Previously, mandatory detention primarily applied after a conviction for certain crimes, including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710266\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710266\">Aggravated felonies<\/span><\/strong>: Broad category defined specifically for <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710268\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710268\">immigration law<\/span>, as we discussed above. It includes murder, rape, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/criminal\/criminal-charges\/drug-trafficking-distribution.html\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710284\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710284\">drug trafficking<\/span><\/a>, and many fraud offenses. A crime can be an <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710266\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710266\">aggravated felony<\/span> for immigration purposes even if it was classified as a <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710283\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710283\">misdemeanor<\/span> in criminal court.<\/li>\n<li><strong><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710286\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710286\">Crimes Involving Moral Turpitude<\/span> (CIMTs)<\/strong>: As discussed above, the courts identify these crimes on a case-by-case basis rather than using a statutory definition.<\/li>\n<li><strong><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710298\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710298\">Controlled substances<\/span> offenses<\/strong>: This encompasses a conviction for nearly any drug-related crime, with the narrow exception of a single offense for simple possession of 30 grams or less of marijuana for personal use.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Firearms offenses<\/strong>: Convictions related to the illegal purchase, sale, possession, or carrying of certain firearms or destructive devices will cause mandatory detention.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Terrorism-related offenses<\/strong>: Any activity related to espionage, sabotage, or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/criminal\/criminal-charges\/supporting-terrorism.html\">terrorism<\/a> renders a <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710273\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710273\">noncitizen<\/span> subject to mandatory detention.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Under the Laken Riley Act, mandatory detention is now also triggered by an arrest or charge for the following crimes:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Burglary<\/li>\n<li>Theft<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/criminal\/criminal-charges\/definition-of-larceny.html\">Larceny<\/a><\/li>\n<li><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710316\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710316\">Shoplifting<\/span><\/li>\n<li>Assaulting a police officer<\/li>\n<li>Crimes that result in death or serious bodily injury<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>This change requires mandatory detention much earlier in the criminal justice process. Someone who has merely been arrested for one of these crimes can now face mandatory detention, even if their <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/criminal\/criminal-rights\/trial-rights.html\">criminal trial<\/a> is still pending or if prosecutors later decide to drop the charges.<\/p>\n<h3>Affecting More <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710273\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710273\">Non-Citizens<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The additional arrest triggers mean many more people are at risk of detention. However, this new rule does not apply to all <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710273\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710273\">non-citizens<\/span>. The person arrested or charged must also be considered <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710281\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710281\">inadmissible<\/span> under the <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710276\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710276\">Immigration and Nationality Act<\/span> due to at least one of the following conditions:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Entered without inspection (illegally)<\/li>\n<li>Committed fraud or misrepresentation to get an immigration benefit<\/li>\n<li>Lacked proper documents upon entry<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>It primarily affects those who entered the U.S. without authorization. The groups most at risk under the new rule are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>DACA and TPS recipients<\/strong>: Many recipients of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and Temporary Protected Status (TPS) originally <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/deportation-removal\/ewi-entry-without-inspection.html\">entered the U.S. without inspection<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Undocumented immigrants<\/strong>: These are individuals who entered without inspection and have no legal protections under U.S. law.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>It does not apply to the following groups, as they are not considered <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710281\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710281\">inadmissible<\/span> under the specific grounds listed in the Act:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710271\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710271\">Lawful <\/span><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710264\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710264\">permanent residents<\/span> (<span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710269\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710269\">green card holders<\/span>)<\/li>\n<li>Refugees or asylees<\/li>\n<li>Those on valid visas (like students or temporary workers), including those who may have overstayed their visa<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>A person who entered the United States without inspection as a child might have received DACA protection, which allows them to live and work legally in the United States. Because of the initial entry without inspection, they meet the <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710281\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710281\">inadmissibility<\/span> condition of the Laken Riley Act. If they are arrested for one of the listed offenses, even something <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/criminal\/criminal-charges\/shoplifting.html\">as minor as <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710316\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710316\">shoplifting<\/span><\/a>, they meet the arrest condition set out by the Laken Riley Act. <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710313\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710313\">Immigration authorities<\/span> must detain them, even if prosecutors later drop the charges.<\/p>\n<h2>Effects of a Felony on Cancellations and Withholdings of Removal<\/h2>\n<p>If you are petitioning a court for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/deportation-removal\/cancellation-of-removal.html\">cancellation or withholding of removal<\/a>, keep the following in mind. It can be difficult to win an appeal before an <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710285\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710285\">immigration court<\/span>, especially once you&#8217;re considered a <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710265\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710265\">deportable<\/span> alien. A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/deportation-removal\/overview-of-removal-procedures.html\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710265\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710265\">deportable<\/span> alien<\/a> is someone whom the <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710313\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710313\">immigration authorities<\/span> can legally remove from the United States. This includes foreign nationals who:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Violated <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710291\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710291\">U.S. <\/span><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710268\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710268\">immigration<\/span><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710268\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710268\"> laws<\/span><\/li>\n<li>Committed certain crimes<\/li>\n<li>Failed to maintain their legal status<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>While some people could file for withholding of removal, many <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710292\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710292\">felony convictions<\/span> create a mandatory bar to this type of relief. <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710268\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710268\">Immigration laws<\/span> bar those convicted of <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710294\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710294\">serious crimes<\/span> from filing a withholding of removal.<\/p>\n<p>In a withholding of removal, the applicant should prove a high chance of facing persecution in their country of origin. This persecution could be rooted in any of the five protected grounds, such as:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Race<\/li>\n<li>Religion<\/li>\n<li>Nationality<\/li>\n<li>Membership in a particular social group<\/li>\n<li>Political opinion<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If you were to face persecution in your country of origin for any of these reasons, you might qualify for withholding of removal. Even so, many <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710270\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710270\">criminal convictions<\/span> create a mandatory bar to withholding of removal. <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710270\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710270\">Criminal convictions<\/span> can significantly impact your case during any stage of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/deportation-removal\/overview-of-removal-procedures.html\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710280\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710280\">removal proceedings<\/span><\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Voluntary departure may be an option in removal cases. With <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/deportation-removal\/voluntary-departure.html\">voluntary departure<\/a>, you can leave the U.S. while avoiding some <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710288\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710288\">immigration consequences<\/span> of a removal order. Doing so may make it easier to return at a later date. This type of immigration relief is not available to those convicted of <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710266\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710266\">aggravated felonies<\/span>.<\/p>\n<h2>Questions About How a Felony Can Affect Your <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710277\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710277\">Immigration Status<\/span>? Talk to an Attorney<\/h2>\n<p>Certain <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710292\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710292\">felony convictions<\/span> can have enormous consequences on your future, especially if you are a foreign national on a U.S. visa. Contact an <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/immigration-naturalization-law\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710300\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710300\">immigration attorney<\/span><\/a> to help you with your case and figure out the best legal option.<\/p>\n<p>Speaking with an <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710300\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710300\">immigration attorney<\/span> is completely safe, even if you do not have a legal <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_52710277\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"52710277\">immigration status<\/span>. They are there to help you understand your rights and explore possible defenses. They can also help you identify any available relief options that could protect your status.<\/p>\n<p>FindLaw&#8217;s directory of <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/immigration-naturalization-law\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">immigration attorneys<\/a> can get you started. Enter your city or ZIP code for a list of qualified legal professionals near you. Your search results will also show important details about prospective attorneys, like ratings and whether they offer a free consultation.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"was-this-helpful\">\n    <div\n            class=\"was-this-helpful__question-container\"\n            aria-labelledby=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n            role=\"group\"\n    >\n        <span\n                id=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__question fl-text-lg-bold\"\n        >Was this helpful?<\/span>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"Yes\"\n                value=\"yes\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">Yes<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <g id=\"thumbs-up\" 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                 >Solved my problem<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--other\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback was-this-helpful__feedback--negative\">\n                <fieldset>\n                    <legend class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Why was this not helpful?<\/legend>\n                    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message\" role=\"status\">\n                        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message-text\"><\/p>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Missing Information\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                        >Missing the information I need<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Too complicated\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                        >Too complicated \/ too many steps<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--dated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Out of date\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--dated\"\n                        >Out of date<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__form-buttons-container\">\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--positive at-feedback-submit fl-button secondary\"\n                    type=\"submit\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Submit<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--cancel fl-button primary disabled\"\n                    type=\"reset\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Cancel<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-times-circle medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/form>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message\" role=\"status\">\n        <i class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-icon fa fa-check\"><\/i>\n        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-text\" aria-live=\"polite\"><\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"fl-section-sidebar\"><div class=\"fl-editors-summary\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary\">\n    \n    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content\">\n                    <h2>Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?<\/h2>\n                <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\">\n            \n        <\/div>\n        <ul class=\"fl-list-style-none\">\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    Some people can get a green card or complete immigration forms without hiring legal help\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    Complex immigration cases (such as having a criminal history or past immigration violations) may need the support of an attorney\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    A lawyer can explain your rights and protections, giving you more control over the immigration process\n\n                <\/li>\n                    <\/ul>\n                    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\">\n                <p>The immigration process can be complicated and slow. An attorney can offer tailored advice and help prevent common mistakes.<\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link fl-flex\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link\">\n                <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                <p class=\"find-attorney\">\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/immigration-naturalization-law\/#USER_GEO\/?fli=esum:FL29\" title=\"Immigration Law Attorney Directory\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Find a local attorney<\/a><\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"email-subscription fl-mb30\">\n    <div class=\"email-subscription-header\">\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-content\">\n            <h3 class=\"fl-callout-sm fl-no-margin\">Stay Up-to-Date With How the Law Affects Your Life<\/h3>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-image fl-flex fl-items-end\">\n       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rel=\"noopener\">Learn more about FindLaw\u2019s newsletters<\/a>, including our terms of use and privacy policy.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"general-list\">\n    <h3>Helpful Links<\/h3>\n    <ul class=\"fl-list fl-no-margin\">\n                                    <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/asylum-refugee\/asylum-process.html\">\n                        Asylum Process\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/immigration-attorneys.html\">\n                        Hiring an Immigration Attorney\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/deportation-removal.html\">\n                        Deportation and Removal\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                        <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n    <div class=\"popularDirectory\">\n        <div class=\"general-popular-directory \">\n            <div class=\"general-popular-directory-title\">\n                <h3>Attorney Directory<\/h3>\n            <\/div>\n            <ul>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/immigration-naturalization-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Immigration Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/international-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">International Law Attorneys<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/labor-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Labor Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/employment-law-employee\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Employment Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/discrimination\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Discrimination Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/education-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Education Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                            <\/ul>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>How do felonies affect immigration? FindLaw explains deportation consequences for visa holders, green card holders, and undocumented immigrants.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":41135,"featured_media":0,"parent":352763,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"app\/Http\/Controllers\/Templates\/ArticleWithBreadcrumbsController.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_stopmodifiedupdate":true,"_modified_date":"","_autodraft_ids":[],"_cloudinary_featured_overwrite":false,"_sb_is_suggestion_mode":false,"_sb_show_suggestion_boards":false,"_sb_show_comment_boards":false,"_sb_suggestion_history":"","_sb_update_block_changes":"","_is_real_time_mode":false,"_realtime_collaborators":"","footnotes":"","cf_checklist_status":[]},"categories":[2733],"tags":[],"state_laws_tags":[],"flmsa":[],"class_list":["post-352771","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","category-immigration"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/352771","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/41135"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=352771"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/352771\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":399845,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/352771\/revisions\/399845"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/352763"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=352771"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=352771"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=352771"},{"taxonomy":"state_laws_tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/state_laws_tags?post=352771"},{"taxonomy":"flmsa","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/flmsa?post=352771"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}