Skilled Crimmigration Attorneys in Houston, TX

Strong Representation for Immigrants & Their Families

Immigration and criminal law are often intertwined, making it difficult to navigate the complexities of each. In the event that a noncitizen faces one or more criminal charges, it's essential to secure representation from an experienced legal advocate with an in-depth understanding of both criminal and immigration law—a legal area known as crimmigration.

Our accomplished crimmigration attorneys are dedicated to providing strong representation to noncitizens throughout the Houston community. At Galaviz Law Firm, PLLC, we understand how terrifying it can be to be charged with a crime as an immigrant. A criminal conviction can quickly impact your immigration status and even lead to deportation, making it all the more important to consult with an experienced crimmigration lawyer who can defend your rights and restore your freedom to live in the U.S.

U.S. immigration laws can make criminal court proceedings especially unforgiving for noncitizens, which is why our dependable legal team offers comprehensive legal services for both criminal and immigration law. If you’re an immigrant facing criminal charges in the U.S., you can count on our experienced crimmigration lawyers to provide the personalized attention and tireless advocacy you and your loved ones deserve.

Our firm has extensive experience defending the rights of noncitizens in Houston. Call (713) 597-5642 or contact us online to learn how we can help restore your American freedom. 

Texas Crimmigration Laws

As opposed to a criminal defense attorney, an individual with immigration status who finds themselves in legal trouble must seek the guidance of an experienced immigration lawyer. Doing so will ensure they receive expert advice and counsel that is tailored to their specific situation. This area of the law is known as crimmigration.

It’s especially important for noncitizens in Texas to understand the legal risks of crimmigration disputes, as the state has seen a surge in border arrests and criminal convictions for immigrants in recent years.

Consider these common crimmigration disputes that immigrants can face in Texas:

Deportation

When an immigrant is charged with a crime, they can face removal proceedings. Such cases can be exceedingly difficult to navigate without legal help and can ultimately result in the person being deported from the United States.

To maintain lawful resident status in the U.S. and remain united with family and loved ones, immigrants should take care to familiarize themselves with crimmigration laws, as this can empower them to better understand their rights and seek legal advice as soon as possible should they find themselves facing criminal charges or deportation.

DACA

Another common crimmigration dispute involves Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). DACA provides certain protections for undocumented immigrants who arrived in the United States as children. However, DACA recipients must meet certain requirements and may be subject to deportation if they fail to comply with these requirements. It’s crucial for DACA recipients to understand their rights and obligations under the program so that they can remain in compliance with all applicable laws.

Immigration Status

Finally, there are also issues related to visas and other forms of immigration status that can lead to crimmigration disputes. For example, if an immigrant overstays their visa or fails to renew it before it expires, they may face removal proceedings or other penalties from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

It’s imperative for immigrants to understand their rights regarding visas and other forms of immigration status if they wish to avoid potential conflicts with ICE and other government agencies.

What to Do if You’re Detained at the Airport

Sadly, getting arrested at the airport is a very real fear for many immigrants. It can be a terrifying ordeal to get detained at the airport by immigration. There are various reasons why the government may detain noncitizens at the airport, such as:

• The immigrant entered the U.S. unlawfully.
• The immigrant is suspected of criminal activity.
• The immigrant has a current removal order in place.
• The immigrant failed to attend required appointments or hearings.

First and foremost, it's crucial to confirm whether or not you are actually being detained. Law enforcement officers can incorporate strategic language and tonality to imply that you aren’t allowed to leave when you legally can.

Simply asking the officer, “Am I being detained, or am I free to leave?” can provide you with enough information to proceed. It’s imperative to keep silent and refrain from providing any statements until there is a trusted crimmigration attorney present to protect your rights.

Immigrants should take the following steps when detained at the airport:

1. Reach out to a qualified immigration attorney and do not sign any documents prior to consulting with them. Signing in inadvertence can lead to relinquishing your rights for legal counsel or an appeal before a judge.
2. Before deciding to take a voluntary departure, you should always consult with an attorney. If not done correctly, this choice can have far-reaching repercussions, as it may prevent you from returning to the United States or achieving lawful resident status.
3. While you are allowed to consult an attorney or a family member, the government will not provide legal representation for you.
4. After securing legal representation, it’s imperative to relay all of the details and information pertaining to your case. Failure to do so could impede or weaken your claim in court.
5. Should you feel that returning to your homeland could put your safety at risk, be sure to inform both the deportation officer and the court. By doing so, you may very well qualify for asylum.

Turn to a Trusted Crimmigration Lawyer in Houston

It’s essential for immigrants to have a basic knowledge of crimmigration laws in Texas to maintain lawful residence in the U.S. If you’re a noncitizen facing criminal charges in Houston or the surrounding area, it’s best to consult with an experienced Texas crimmigration attorney, as they can help determine the most effective legal strategy to employ on your behalf and guide your steps accordingly in court.

Our firm has extensive experience in both criminal and immigration law, giving us an edge in the courtroom to defend noncitizens and their families in Houston and beyond. We pride ourselves on providing customized legal solutions and personalized attention to each unique case. We have a proven track record of successful results and will stop at nothing to restore the American freedom you rightfully deserve.

If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges in Houston, it’s crucial to secure representation from a Texas crimmigration attorney as soon as possible. Call (713) 597-5642 to request a consultation.