Will You Be Deported if You’re Convicted of a Crime in Illinois?

If you’re like many people who are in the United States on a visa or who have a green card because they’re lawful permanent residents, you may be wondering if you can be deported if you’re convicted of a crime. This guide explains.

Will You Be Deported if You’re Convicted of a Crime in Illinois?

First things first: If someone has accused you of committing a crime, whether you’re here on a temporary stay or you live here permanently, you have the right to consult an attorney about your case. You can call us, day or night, at 847-920-4540 and we’ll give you the legal guidance you need.

With that said, there are some crimes that, if you’re convicted, will make you deportable from the United States. In fact, one of the most common reasons people are put into removal proceedings is because they’re convicted of committing a crime.

What Crimes Make a Person Deportable?

The crimes that most commonly make a person deportable are those of “moral turpitude” and aggravated felonies. 

Generally, crimes of moral turpitude are those that involve things like fraud, larceny or the intent to harm people or things. Domestic battery, driving under the influence, robbery, sex offenses and other violent crimes all count as crimes of moral turpitude – and if you’re convicted of something like this, there’s a good chance that the U.S. government will begin removal proceedings against you. 

Usually, offenses like shoplifting, traffic tickets and other “minor” crimes aren’t considered enough to get a person deported. However, a series of minor infractions could lead to deportation.

What if You’re Accused but Not Found Guilty?

If you’re accused of a crime and found not guilty – or if the state drops the charges against you – you don’t have to worry about being deported in relation to those offenses. For example, if you’re suspected of robbing a bank but you go to trial and the court finds you not guilty, an immigration court is not going to deport you for being accused of robbing a bank. (It can, however, begin removal proceedings against you for other reasons.)

Can a Foreign National Hire an Attorney?

When you’re in the United States, you have the absolute right to hire an attorney to represent you – and that’s true regardless of why you’re here or what your immigration status is. You can hire an attorney to help you through the court system, answer your questions, and represent you in court.

Do You Need to Talk to an Attorney?

If you’ve been accused of a crime, we may be able to help you – and don’t worry: It’s completely confidential. Call us at 847-920-4540 or fill out the form below to schedule your free, private consultation with an experienced and skilled Chicago criminal defense attorney now.