plea

Why Plea Matters If You Are Not a U.S. Citizen

If you are not a United States citizen and you are charged with a crime (either misdemeanor or felony), it’s important to know one thing: a plea to a crime can subject you to deportation. It’s important enough that it is included in standard plea forms and judges are required to remind defendants of this consequence during the plea colloquy. If it’s not crystal clear whether a plea can subject you to deportation or interfere with your status in the U.S., do not enter a change of plea until you have all the information. So, if you are not a U.S. citizen, you must discuss whether a plea to your criminal charge can result in your deportation even if you are a permanent U.S. resident or green cardholder with your lawyer. Also, pleas can impact DACA status so investigate this as well. If you need to hire a lawyer, you can call our office at (813) 253-3363.