Under the Immigration and Nationality Act, certain categories of criminal convictions trigger automatic immigration consequences — including mandatory deportation and bars to naturalization, visa renewal, and reentry. These categories include:

  • Aggravated felonies — a broad federal category that includes drug trafficking, theft offenses with a sentence of one year or more, crimes of violence, money laundering, fraud or deceit involving losses over $10,000, and many other offenses
  • Crimes involving moral turpitude (CIMTs) — a legal concept that encompasses crimes reflecting dishonesty, fraud, intent to harm, or other conduct considered contrary to community standards of justice
  • Controlled substance offenses — virtually all drug-related convictions, including many that would be considered minor under state law
  • Domestic violence offenses — including stalking and violations of protective orders
  • Crimes against children — abuse, neglect, abandonment

Critically, the immigration consequences of a criminal conviction are triggered by the conviction itself — not by the sentence imposed. A suspended sentence or a conditional discharge still counts as a conviction for immigration purposes. Even a guilty plea entered in connection with an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) in New York may, depending on the circumstances, constitute a conviction under federal immigration law.

We work to structure the best possible criminal resolution with immigration consequences front of mind — identifying charges or plea structures that resolve the criminal matter while minimizing or eliminating the immigration exposure. Where charges are unavoidable, we ensure you have a complete understanding of what is at stake and explore every available avenue — including post-conviction relief — to protect your status.

Speak With a New York Criminal Defense Attorney Today

A criminal charge is not the end of the road, but the way you respond to it in the early stages matters more than most people realize. The right legal team, engaged from the start, can mean the difference between a conviction and a dismissal, between deportation and the protection of your future in the United States. Do not wait.

Nonaj Law represents individuals and businesses facing criminal charges across New York — from Manhattan and the five boroughs to federal proceedings in the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York. We offer confidential consultations and serve clients in English, Spanish, Italian, and Albanian.

Contact Nonaj Law at (917) 423-7259 or info@nonajlaw.com. Our office is located at 1180 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 818, New York, NY 10036.

Whether you are facing your first criminal charge or navigating a complex federal investigation, Nonaj Law is ready to fight for you.

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