Can a Criminal Charge Affect Immigration? Arnold Lopez Explains
For immigrants living in the United States—especially in a diverse city like Houston—one mistake can carry heavy consequences. If you’re facing criminal charges and you’re not a U.S. citizen, your legal situation may impact not only your freedom but your immigration status as well.
At Arnold Lopez Law Office, we’ve helped many clients navigate the complex space between criminal and immigration law. In this post, we break down exactly how a criminal charge can affect your immigration case, what to do if you’re in trouble, and why having the right legal team is crucial to your future.
The Link Between Criminal and Immigration Law
Immigration law is unique because it’s tied to federal law, but criminal offenses are handled at the state or local level. That means a criminal conviction—even for a state offense—can trigger federal immigration consequences such as:
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Deportation (Removal)
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Visa denial or revocation
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Green card delays or denials
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Ineligibility for naturalization
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Inadmissibility upon re-entry to the U.S.
Even if you’re a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) or hold a valid visa, certain charges can put your status at risk.
Common Criminal Offenses That Affect Immigration Status
Some charges carry more weight than others. At Arnold Lopez Law Office, we often see the following offenses raise red flags in immigration cases:
1. Crimes Involving Moral Turpitude (CIMT)
These are crimes that show poor moral judgment, like:
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Fraud
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Theft
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Domestic violence
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Assault with intent to harm
Even a single CIMT conviction can cause immigration issues, depending on the circumstances.
2. Drug Offenses
Possession, distribution, or trafficking—especially involving controlled substances—can lead to automatic inadmissibility or deportation.
3. Aggravated Felonies
This is a broad category under immigration law that includes:
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Drug trafficking
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Sexual assault
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Burglary
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Firearm offenses Even if a crime isn’t a felony under Texas law, it might be classified as one under immigration law.
4. Multiple Convictions
If you have two or more convictions with a total sentence of five years or more, this can make you removable—even if the crimes seem minor.
Arrested in Houston? Here’s What to Do Immediately
If you’re an immigrant and you’ve been arrested in Houston, time is critical. Here’s what the team at Arnold Lopez Law Office recommends:
✔️ Do Not Speak Without an Attorney
Anything you say can be used against you in both your criminal and immigration case. Always request an attorney first.
✔️ Hire a Lawyer Who Understands Both Systems
Not all criminal defense attorneys understand how a charge affects immigration. Arnold Lopez is experienced in both fields and can help you avoid unnecessary risks.
✔️ Don’t Assume a Plea Deal Will Protect You
Some plea deals that sound “harmless” in criminal court can destroy your immigration status. Never accept a plea without speaking to a qualified attorney first.
Can You Be Deported Without a Conviction?
Yes. Even without a formal conviction, being arrested or charged with certain crimes can still lead to ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) involvement. ICE may place a hold (detainer) on you at a local jail or begin removal proceedings based solely on arrest records or other evidence.
This is why it’s so important to have a defense attorney who also understands immigration law—Arnold Lopez Law Office can fight on both fronts.
How Arnold Lopez Law Office Protects Immigrants Facing Criminal Charges
Based in Houston, we’ve helped many clients protect their legal status and stay with their families. Here’s how we work:
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🛡️ Evaluate Immigration Consequences Before Plea Deals
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📋 Prepare legal defense in both immigration & criminal court
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📞 Communicate with your family and the court on your behalf
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🌐 Bilingual service for Spanish-speaking clients
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🏛️ Advocate for alternative sentencing that avoids immigration consequences (if eligible)
Whether you’re undocumented, have DACA, hold a visa, or are applying for permanent residency, we take your situation seriously and fight for your future.
Real Help for Real People
Facing a criminal charge is stressful. Facing one as an immigrant is terrifying. But you don’t have to go through it alone.
We’ve earned the trust of hundreds of clients in Houston through honest guidance, proven results, and dedicated representation—especially for our Spanish-speaking community. With over 250 5-star reviews, you can feel confident you’re in good hands.
📞 Call Now for Legal Help
If you’re worried about how a criminal charge might affect your immigration status, don’t wait.
📍 Visit us at: Arnold Lopez Law Office, 4617 Bristol St, Houston, TX 77009
📞 Call now: (713) 695-2000
🌐 Learn more at: https://arnoldlopez.net/practice-areas/immigration/
The sooner you act, the more options we have. Let us protect your future — call today.