Criminal Immigration Lawyer in Florida
When Criminal Charges Threaten Your Immigration Status in Florida
As a Criminal Immigration Lawyer serving Orlando, Miami, and all of Florida, I witness daily how criminal charges create a domino effect for non-citizens. At Russo Law & Advocacy, we specialize in “dual defense” – because a single conviction can trigger:
✔ Deportation proceedings (even for minor offenses)
✔ Green card denial or revocation
✔ Inadmissibility for future visas
✔ Loss of work permits (including DACA/TPS)
Dominique Russo and our team provide this critical dual defense across Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade, and Orange Counties, including specialized Orlando immigration cases where tourism workers face unique risks.
How Criminal Charges Affect Immigration Cases
1. Deportable Offenses
- Even some misdemeanors can trigger deportation, including:
- Drug offenses (including simple possession)
- Crimes involving moral turpitude (theft, fraud, domestic violence)
- Aggravated felonies (drug trafficking, violent crimes)
Key Law: Immigration and Nationality Act § 237 lists deportable crimes.
2. Inadmissibility Issues
Certain convictions make you ineligible for:
- Green cards
- Visas
- Citizenship
3. Special Protections at Risk
DACA, TPS, or asylum status could be revoked after a criminal conviction.
Why You Need a Criminal Immigration Lawyer:
Most criminal defense lawyers don’t understand immigration consequences. We:
✅ Analyze how charges affect your specific visa or status
✅ Negotiate for immigration-safe plea deals
✅ Fight to seal or expunge records when possible
✅ Prepare waivers if deportation proceedings begin
Common Criminal Charges That Hurt Immigration Cases
| Charge | Immigration Risk |
|---|---|
| Drug Possession | High – Even small amounts can mean deportation |
| Domestic Violence | High – Considered a “crime of moral turpitude” |
| DUI | Low (unless injury/felony) – But multiple DUIs raise red flags |
| Theft/Fraud | High – May block future visa applications |
| Sex Crimes | Very High – Almost always leads to deportation |
Dual Defense Strategies We Use
1. Immigration-Safe Plea Bargains
We negotiate for charges that:
- Avoid “aggravated felony” classification
- Don’t count as “crimes involving moral turpitude”
- Qualify for Petty Offense Exception
2. Post-Conviction Relief
If you already have a conviction, we explore:
- Record sealing (Florida law allows it for some misdemeanors)
- Motion to Vacate (if original lawyer failed to warn about immigration risks)
3. Bond Help in Detention
If ICE arrests you, we file:
- Bond motions
- Cancellation of Removal petitions
FAQs About Criminal Immigration Cases
1. Can I be deported for a misdemeanor?
Yes—even minor crimes like shoplifting can have immigration consequences.
2. Will a DUI make me deportable?
Usually no, but multiple DUIs or DUIs with injuries increase risk.
3. How fast does deportation start after arrest?
ICE can begin proceedings immediately after a criminal conviction.
4. Can I fix my status after a criminal conviction?
Sometimes—with waivers or appeals, but it’s much harder. Preventing the conviction is best.
5. Should I talk to ICE without a lawyer?
Never. You have the right to remain silent.
Facing Criminal Charges? Protect Your Immigration Status Now
Don’t risk your future in the U.S.—call Dominique Russo at Russo Law & Advocacy for dual defense:
📍 Palm Beach County (West Palm Beach, Boca Raton)
📍 Broward County (Fort Lauderdale)
📍 Miami-Dade County (Miami)
📍 Orange County (Orlando)
📞 Free Consultation
“One criminal plea can destroy years of immigration progress. Let’s fight both cases at once.”
