Charged with a Crime as a Non-Citizen?Protect your future in the United States.
Criminal charges can have devastating immigration consequences — but smart legal defense can make all the difference.
Criminal Charges Can Threaten Your Immigration Status
In the United States, even a minor criminal charge can cause major immigration problems.
Depending on the offense, you could face:
Deportation (removal from the U.S.)
Ineligibility for green cards, visas, or asylum
Denial of citizenship (naturalization)
Loss of DACA status
Inability to re-enter the U.S. after travel abroad
Detention by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
These risks apply even if:
You have legal permanent resident (green card) status
You have a valid visa
You are married to a U.S. citizen
You have lived in the U.S. for many years
You need a criminal defense lawyer who understands both the criminal and immigration systems.
Common Charges with Immigration Consequences
Certain types of criminal charges are especially dangerous for immigration status, including:
Drug offenses (even minor possession charges)
Theft and property crimes
Crimes involving "moral turpitude" (fraud, dishonesty, violence)
Domestic violence offenses
DUI charges with aggravating factors (e.g., injuries)
Firearms offenses
Violent crimes (assault, robbery)
Convictions, guilty pleas, and even certain types of diversion programs can trigger immigration consequences.
That’s why it’s critical to have a defense lawyer who thinks several moves ahead.
How Jacob Wilson Law Protects Non-Citizen Clients
At Jacob Wilson Law, we work with non-citizen clients to:
Fight for outright dismissals, not just plea bargains
Negotiate charges to avoid triggering deportability or inadmissibility
Coordinate closely with immigration attorneys
Structure resolutions to protect future immigration applications
Explain clearly the potential consequences before any decision is made
Every case is different — and the best criminal result is not always the best immigration result. We help you make informed, strategic choices.
Experience Matters: We understand how criminal law and immigration law collide.
Individual Attention: Every client’s immigration situation is unique — we listen and plan accordingly.
Culturally Sensitive Representation: We respect the diverse backgrounds of our clients and the immense stakes involved.
Local Insight: We defend clients facing criminal charges throughout Nashville and Middle Tennessee.