New Jersey Crimmigration Lawyer

The United States of America is sometimes called the “Land of Opportunity” or the “American Dream” ready for higher education, entrepreneurial opportunities, and the possibility of landing a dream job. These are just some of the reasons immigrants come here to build new futures. Here in New Jersey is a melting pot home to have so many internationals, including many college students, call New Jersey home.

As a non-citizen to the USA, it’s important to know that just one bad decision can quickly threaten your immigration status. The consequences of facing criminal charges can be severe, putting your future at stake. But the attorneys at Pagliara Law Group are here to guide you through and secure the best outcome possible, keeping your goals and dreams on track.

What is Crimmigration?

Simply, crimmigration is where two areas of law intersect–criminal and immigration–meet. Up until the 1980s, citizens and non-citizens were mostly punished alike for crimes, regardless of citizenship status. About 38 years ago, criminal and immigration law began to mingle though. Suddenly, a non-citizen with criminal charges also faced possible immigration penalties as well. In today’s political climate, the focus and reaction to these types of issues seem to be continually changing. That’s why it’s all the more important to have up-to-date legal help in these areas.

How does crimmigration affect you?

If you’re a non-citizen being charged with a crime, your immigration status may very well be in jeopardy. For international students, this means your ability to attend school in the U.S., traveling within the States, and re-entering the country after visiting abroad can all be challenged and even denied. The long-term consequences can be devastating, including being separated from U.S. family and friends, or not being able to finish your education or ever work in this country.

Even relatively small charges can have a significant impact on your immigration status. Common criminal charges and academic issues we help internationals navigate include:

• DUI/OWI
• Drug possession
• Academic dishonesty
• Public intoxication
• Criminal recklessness
• Theft and other petty crimes
• Domestic violence crimes

For international students facing academic or other campus-related charges, cases may become even more complicated.  College discipline processes can quickly cause problems with F1 Visas. And if criminal charges are also filed, your immigration status may be in peril, too. We understand that’s a lot for one person to confront, but you don’t need to do it alone.

We understand the ins and outs of crimmigration and stay on top of the ever-shifting immigration law landscape. To address these kinds of issues, you don’t just need a good lawyer—you need an aggressive team of attorneys with specialized knowledge of both criminal and immigration law to come to your aid. Don’t let your American dream get pulled out from under you. Reach out today to us.  Contact  Pagliara Law Group.