As an attorney with a Grand Rapids criminal defense law firm can tell you, illegal re-entry to the United States after deportation or some other form of removal is a serious crime with severe consequences upon conviction, not only for you, but also for your family.
How May I Be Charged with Illegal Re-entry?
Your Grand Rapids criminal defense law group can advise that charges may be filed against you if you made an attempt to unlawfully enter the U.S. if you were previously:
• Denied admission
• Deported
• Forcibly removed
• Excluded
• Left voluntarily if under the duress of a removal, deportation or exclusion action
A Grand Rapids Criminal Defense Law Group on Potential Penalties for Illegal Re-entry
The penalties upon conviction for illegal re-entry, as best explained by a Grand Rapids criminal defense law group, are primarily dependent on the reason you were deported or otherwise left the U.S. If you have prior criminal convictions, you may face:
• Up to 10 years in prison if previously convicted of a felony
• Up to 10 years in prison if previously convicted of three or more felonies
• Up to 20 years in prison if previously convicted of an aggravated felony
Defenses a Grand Rapids Criminal Defense Law Firm may Employ
Each case must be evaluated on its own merits, but a Grand Rapids criminal defense law firm reports the following are typical defenses:
• Any prior convictions are invalid
• Any prior convictions were incorrectly charged as felonies
• The reason for your removal from the U.S. was invalid
• You did not have the required criminal intent to re-enter the U.S.
• You did not “enter” the U.S. under existing legal standards
Retain an Experienced Grand Rapids Criminal Defense Law Firm for Legal Advice
If you have been convicted of a crime and were deported, it is illegal to attempt to re-enter the country. Criminal immigration matters are complex and you need a zealous and knowledgeable advocate on your side. Contact the Grand Rapids criminal defense law firm of Jolene J. Weiner-Vatter for all your concerns. Call (616) 451-4446. Time is of the essence. Call today.
