Criminal Charges & Immigration Consequences

Massachusetts Criminal Defense Attorneys Protecting Your Future

At Benzaken, Maguire, Sheehan & Wood, LLP, we focus exclusively on criminal defense, but we understand that for non-citizens, a criminal charge is more than just a legal battle—it can be a direct threat to your ability to stay in the United States. A conviction, or even certain plea deals, can lead to deportation, visa denials, or loss of lawful permanent resident (green card) status.

Our attorneys work strategically and aggressively to defend our clients against criminal charges while ensuring that immigration consequences are considered at every stage of the case.

Why Immigration Consequences Matter in Criminal Cases

Many non-citizens charged with crimes face serious collateral consequences beyond jail time or fines. Under U.S. immigration law, certain criminal convictions can:

🔹 Trigger Deportation – Even longtime green card holders can be removed.
🔹 Lead to Inadmissibility – A criminal record may prevent future reentry into the U.S. or obtaining a visa.
🔹 Block Naturalization – Some offenses disqualify applicants from U.S. citizenship.
🔹 Impact Immigration Status – Even a misdemeanor can have severe consequences.

Not all criminal convictions carry the same immigration risks, and the way a case is handled can make all the difference in whether someone is able to remain in the U.S.

Criminal Offenses That Can Lead to Immigration Problems

We understand the high stakes involved when non-citizens face criminal charges. Some of the most common offenses that carry immigration consequences include:

✅ Crimes Involving Moral Turpitude (CIMT) – Offenses involving fraud, theft, assault, or dishonesty.
✅ Aggravated Felonies – Includes drug trafficking, firearm violations, and violent crimes.
✅ Drug-Related Offenses – Even minor possession charges can lead to removal.
✅ Domestic Violence & Restraining Order Violations – These offenses can trigger deportation proceedings.
✅ Firearm Offenses – Unlawful possession or use of a firearm is a deportable offense.
✅ Multiple Criminal Convictions – A combination of convictions could lead to inadmissibility or removal.

Even pleading guilty to a reduced charge can still have devastating immigration consequences. That’s why it’s critical to work with a criminal defense attorney who understands the intersection of criminal and immigration law.

How We Defend Criminal Cases with Immigration Consequences in Mind

While Benzaken, Maguire, Sheehan & Wood, LLP does not practice immigration law, we are experienced criminal defense attorneys who recognize when immigration consequences are at stake. Our approach includes:

✔ Evaluating Every Option Before Entering a Plea – Some charges that seem minor under state law could be considered “aggravated felonies” under immigration law. We explore all alternatives to avoid unintended consequences.
✔ Working with Immigration Counsel – If needed, we can coordinate with an immigration attorney to ensure that your defense strategy aligns with your immigration status.
✔ Seeking Alternatives to Conviction – In some cases, pretrial diversion programs, pretrial probation, or other legal strategies may help avoid a conviction that triggers deportation.
✔ Fighting to Reduce Charges – Sometimes, modifying a charge or sentence length can make the difference between staying in the U.S. or being removed.

We work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients, understanding that a conviction could be life-altering beyond the criminal penalties.

If You’re a Non-Citizen Facing Criminal Charges, You Need the Right Defense

If you or a loved one is not a U.S. citizen and facing criminal charges, do not plead guilty before speaking with an experienced criminal defense attorney. You need a lawyer who understands how criminal convictions impact immigration status.

At Benzaken, Maguire, Sheehan & Wood, LLP, we fight to protect your rights, your future, and your ability to remain in the U.S.