If you are a refugee in the U.S., a lawful permanent resident, or an employee or student with a visa, you may be deported if you are convicted of the illegal possession of a firearm. Here’s what you need to know about the potential consequences of this charge and how to get experienced legal help.
Deportation
Generally, any criminal conviction that involves a firearm will result in an immigrant becoming deportable. If you are subject to deportation after being convicted of a firearms charge, you will be put into removal proceedings.
At this point, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will need to show evidence that your conviction was for a deportable offense, or that you committed a crime of moral turpitude in order for you to be removed.
Aggravated Felony Charges
If you were charged with another crime while in possession of an illegal firearm, you may be charged with an aggravated felony. For example, if you robbed a gas station but did so with a firearm, this may be considered aggravated or armed robbery. If you are not deported, you will likely face more stringent penalties than if you had committed the same crime without a firearm.
Barred From Relief
If you were seeking asylum in America as a refugee or were an illegal immigrant at the time you were caught in possession of a firearm, you may be barred from seeking immigration relief. You may not be eligible to receive asylum or to apply for residency, even if you are not deported. This may be the case even if you were acquitted or found not guilty of other crimes you may have been charged with.
When to Contact a Criminal Immigration Attorney in Maryland
At Llinas Law Immigration & Criminal Defense, we have extensive experience representing immigrants facing criminal charges, including those for aggravated felonies and illegal firearms. It’s crucial that you act as soon as possible to begin forming a strong defense strategy that has the best chance at being exonerated.
Attorney Llinas is committed to providing each of his clients with comprehensive, aggressive legal advocacy when they need it most. He offers zealous, seasoned support to immigrants whose families will suffer if they are convicted of a crime and/or deported.
Call now to schedule an appointment for your initial consultation at 860-530-1781. We can help you overcome frightening legal matters that may be difficult or complex to understand.