If you do not understand the rules, others who understand them better can take advantage of you. It is true for everything from the sports field to legal matters. One set of laws you might not be clear on relates to the police's power to enter your home. Getting it...
What does a DUI charge have to do with immigration?
Many people pick up a charge for driving while under the influence (DUI). They put it down to bad luck or making a wrong choice. It never crosses their mind that they could contest it. It never crosses their mind they should contest it. If you are not a U.S. citizen,...
What is ‘a crime of moral turpitude’?
The language barrier is of the biggest challenges immigrants face when they come to the United States. People can struggle to read and write when English is not their first language, making it difficult to do things like get a job or find housing. The legal language...
Why a plea deal could harm your immigration status
If you grew up watching U.S. detective shows, it is easy to misunderstand how the justice system works. You might think that if the police charge you with a crime, you will go to trial to fight the charges. Yet, recent research shows that is not how it works. A 2018...
Can you legally use marijuana in California if you aren’t a U.S. citizen?
Cannabis products are legal for recreational use in California. You might assume, then, that you’re safe from legal ramifications if you decide to indulge a little. That might be true as long as you are here in the United States on a green card or any type of visa....
Criminal conviction may result in deportation
The federal government may downgrade an immigrant's status if they have been convicted of a felony. However, this will depend on the type of felony and the facts of the case. Non-citizens who are convicted of crimes of moral turpitude or aggravated felonies in...
Supreme Court rules on immigrants unaware they are illegal
California immigrants may not face criminal liability if they are in the country illegally and commit an illegal act but do not realize it based on a ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court. On June 21, the court ruled in a 7-2 decision that it is necessary for prosecutors...