The Impact of Criminal Charges on Immigration Status in Texas
For immigrants living in Texas, a criminal charge can bring more than just legal trouble — it can jeopardize your immigration status, risk your green card, or even lead to deportation. At Arnold Lopez Law Office, we understand how frightening this reality is, especially for our Spanish-speaking clients and mixed-status families throughout Houston.
As a law firm that specializes in both criminal defense and immigration law, our mission is to help individuals protect their rights, stay informed, and defend their future — even in the face of criminal accusations.
This blog explains how criminal charges can impact your immigration status, what types of charges carry the most serious consequences, and why having the right legal team on your side is critical.
Why Criminal Charges Are Especially Serious for Immigrants
While U.S. citizens can often resolve a criminal case through probation, fines, or diversion programs, non-citizens face another layer of risk: immigration consequences.
Immigration law treats some criminal offenses as grounds for:
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Deportation (removal)
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Denial of green card or citizenship applications
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Revocation of DACA, TPS, or work permits
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Ineligibility for asylum or adjustment of status
Even if the charge seems “minor,” it may be considered serious under immigration law — especially if it falls into the category of a “crime involving moral turpitude” (CIMT) or aggravated felony.
Common Charges That Can Affect Immigration Status
Here are some of the most common criminal charges that can impact immigration status in Texas:
1. Drug Offenses
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Possession of controlled substances
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Drug trafficking or distribution
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Paraphernalia charges
Even a single misdemeanor drug conviction — including marijuana — can lead to inadmissibility or removal.
2. Assault or Domestic Violence
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Assault causing bodily injury
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Family violence or threats
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Protective order violations
These can trigger deportation and bar re-entry into the U.S., especially if classified as crimes involving moral turpitude.
3. Theft or Fraud-Related Offenses
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Shoplifting, burglary, or robbery
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Credit card fraud, check fraud, or identity theft
Theft and fraud charges are heavily scrutinized under immigration law. A conviction may permanently bar you from obtaining legal status.
4. DUI/DWI (Driving While Intoxicated)
While not always a deportable offense on its own, a DUI or multiple DUI charges can raise red flags — especially if there are:
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Aggravating factors (accident, injuries, child passenger)
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Prior convictions
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Lack of legal status
5. Sex Offenses or Crimes Against Children
These are among the most severe and are nearly always classified as aggravated felonies in immigration court, leading to mandatory detention and likely deportation.
Immigration Terms You Should Know
To understand how the system works, here are a few legal terms you may encounter:
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Inadmissible – Not allowed to enter the U.S. or adjust status (e.g., get a green card)
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Deportable – Subject to removal from the U.S.
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Conviction – Includes guilty pleas, no contest pleas, and sometimes even deferred adjudication
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Aggravated Felony – A broad category of crimes under immigration law, not always “felonies” under state law, but carry automatic deportation risk
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Crime Involving Moral Turpitude (CIMT) – Includes theft, fraud, violence, and other offenses that suggest poor moral character
What Happens If You’re Charged?
If you’re an immigrant and are charged with a crime in Texas, here’s what to do:
1. Do Not Plead Guilty Without Legal Advice
A plea deal that helps your criminal case could destroy your immigration status. Always consult with a criminal defense attorney who understands immigration law before making any decisions.
2. Tell Your Attorney About Your Status
If you’re undocumented, on a visa, have DACA, or are applying for a green card, your attorney must know your full immigration history to help protect your future.
3. Understand the ICE Hold Risk
If you’re booked into jail, you may face an ICE hold, which can lead to detention and deportation. Immediate legal representation can help prevent unnecessary consequences.
How Arnold Lopez Law Office Helps
At Arnold Lopez Law, we understand the complex relationship between criminal and immigration law. Our legal team works aggressively to:
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Fight for case dismissals or reduced charges
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Avoid convictions that lead to deportation
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Help you understand plea options that minimize immigration risk
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Represent you in both criminal and immigration court, if necessary
We also work with clients who are:
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Green card holders (LPRs)
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Visa holders (student, work, tourist)
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DACA recipients
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TPS holders
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Undocumented individuals at risk of removal
Our goal is to protect your rights, defend your future, and keep your family together.
Real Example: A Houston Client’s Outcome
A recent client — a DACA recipient — was arrested for simple possession. Our team at Arnold Lopez Law negotiated a dismissal of the charge and preserved his DACA status. Without the right legal support, he could have lost his work permit and faced deportation.
Every case is different — but with the right attorney, your case can be managed with precision, strategy, and care.
Call Now for Legal Help in Houston
If you’re facing criminal charges and are concerned about your immigration status, don’t wait. Time matters, and early legal intervention can make the difference between staying in the U.S. and facing deportation.
Visit: 4617 Bristol St, Houston, TX 77009
Call: (713) 695-2000
Learn more: https://arnoldlopez.net
Arnold Lopez Law Office – Trusted by Houston’s immigrant community. Call now and protect your future.